Corning, NY - November 8, 2011 - Corning's Gaffer District and title sponsor Connors Mercantile are pleased to announce the official start of this year's Crystal City Christmas events season.  A series of traditional events and exciting new events kicks off with the 5th annual Holidazzle Shopping Weekend, November 11-13, 2011.

Shoppers are invited to pick up a Holidazzle passport at participating locations.  Filled with special discounts, savings and promotions from dozens of downtown businesses, this year's passport also includes a fun scavenger hunt!  Search for the Crystal City Christmas "Quilted Star" inside participating locations and collect stamps all weekend.  At the end of the weekend,  drop off the stamped brochure at any participating location and be entered to win one of this year's hottest holiday gifts - the new Kindle™ Fire full-color e-reader!

On Saturday, November 12, visitors will also enjoy various live music and local entertainment while shopping!  Participating Gaffer District businesses will display a green and white Gaffer District windsock outdoors during business hours to indicate participation.

The Crystal City Christmas season will continue with the Northside Tree Lighting on Thursday, November 17th at the Corning Senior Center, the Parade of Lights and Centerway Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, November 26th and the 37th annual Sparkle on Saturday, December 3rd.  The annual Window of Gifts Giveaway will also return this year with a kickoff at the Corning Area Chamber of Commerce Holiday Family Festival on Saturday, November 19th. 

For the most up-to-date information, visit www.gafferdistrict.com or search for Crystal City Christmas on Facebook!  Please contact Lin Kotlinski, Director of Events at (607) 937-6292 x105 or email: lin@gafferdistrict.com with any questions.