A festive month of twinkling white lights, holiday décor,

local shopping,  and seasonal traditions.

 Photos courtesy of the Sag Harbor Express & The American Hotel 

“Sag Harbor is my Universe,” Ted Conklin, owner of the American Hotel, said last December 15th  from his home in West Palm Beach, Florida, with his wife Susie. Conklin watched as community members gathered on the porch of the American Hotel to serenade Ted, Sag Harbor. The night was like the movie It’s a Wonderful Life: beautiful, hometown, and bittersweet. Conklin had been battling health issues for almost two years and enjoyed his favorite Christmas song, “White Christmas”. 

The gathering was sponsored by two of Conklin’s friends, Jeff Peters and Billy Baldwin, who asked attendees to dress in Christmas attire and show up at 5:30 p.m. sharp for a quick rehearsal under the direction of pianist Judy Carmichael.

Since then, Ted Conklin has left us, and Susie Franklin has embraced Sag Harbor, and Sag Harbor has embraced her. Several events have celebrated Susie and the hotel,  the heart of Sag Harbor. So, this winter she decided it has to be an extra special “white Christmas” for Ted and the community, with twinkling white lights, holiday décor, local shopping, and seasonal traditions. So, “Let’s Holiday in Sag Harbor” was born. 

“I thought, they’ve wrapped their arms around me; what can I do for the community?” Franklin said earlier this week. (via the Sag Harbor Express)

Franklin has met with several business owners over the last few weeks in preparation for this winter fête. A committee has been created for the inaugural “Let’s Holiday in Sag Harbor,” a village-wide celebration that will begin around Thanksgiving. Experience the beauty, spirit, and small-town charm that make Sag Harbor, originally a whaling village,  so special.

Throughout the month, elegant white lights, festive storefronts, and seasonal décor will transform the village into a picturesque holiday destination. From Main Street’s charming boutiques to its restaurants and waterfront, the celebration will invite residents and visitors to experience Sag Harbor at its most enchanting.

At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to community, tradition, and supporting local businesses. Visitors are encouraged to explore the village, discover unique gifts, enjoy seasonal dining, gather with family and friends, and embrace the warmth of the holiday season.

“Let’s Holiday in Sag Harbor” aims to establish a cherished annual tradition, bringing the community together while creating a welcoming destination for holiday shopping, dining, and festive experiences. 

Article by Rolise Rachel

The Family Office Summit

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@theseasunevents