Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Forest Avenue Business Improvement District will mark two decades of its annual Holiday Stroll on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. along Forest Avenue. Santa will ride along the Forest Avenue corridor from Broadway to Hart Boulevard during the celebration. Rain or snow, local merchants plan to open their doors to visitors, offering treat samples, hot cocoa and special holiday offers. “We’re proud to mark two decades of bringing holiday joy and togetherness to our Forest Avenue community,” said Nina Flores, executive director of the Forest Avenue BID. “This event truly captures the spirit of the season and showcases the heart of our local businesses.” The event typically features seasonal decorations along Forest Avenue, with businesses competing in a holiday window display contest. Santa arrives in a horse-drawn carriage. Restaurants offer special menu items and tastings to encourage residents to explore the neighborhood’s culinary offerings. The Forest Avenue Stroll evolved from holiday-themed events that the Forest Avenue BID began organizing two decades ago to promote local businesses in West Brighton. In 2017, the event featured 22 strands of LED lights strung across Forest Avenue and drew participation from businesses such as Café Milano, Beans ‘n’ Leaves, Panini Grill, The Staaten, Moretti’s Bakery, and Pastosa Ravioli. Today, support for the festivities continues with contributions from Sally’s Southern, The Kettle Black, Ho’Brah, Better Health Gourmet, Jody’s Club Forest, Crumbl Cookie and Italo Fine Foods. This year will see some newcomers in the food realm, including Randall Manor Tavern at 382 Forest Ave., Shah’s Halal Food (opening this November) and perhaps Insomnia Cookies, also in the works. Jean’s Fine Wines is now a craft store called Muse at 642 Forest Ave.
