By Cynthia Whitty

The town, with community organizations and businesses, held its first Holiday Stroll on Dec. 4. Residents were invited to walk along Main and Front streets to view storefronts, visit pop-up shops, and enjoy games, crafts, activities, and more shopping at the Corner Spot. At dusk, strollers gathered along Front Street to enjoy hot cocoa, caroling, and the annual tree lighting. Santa arrived with the aid of Ashland’s first responders to greet the crowd before embarking on his drive through local neighborhoods. Participating businesses included Ashland Reiki & Wellness, B & Beauty, Blush Bouquets, The Bagel Table, MSM Blow Dry Bar, My Ashland Office, Needham Bank, and Stone’s Public House.