Collection of Holly Haddox

In 1979, South Main Preservation Society began what is today known as Christmas Traditions and Las Posadas.

Five SMPS members met at the Western House, each contributed $100 as funding for the first promoted Christmas walk. Among them were John Dengler of Dengler Tobacco, Bill Halem of the St. Charles Vintage House, Clyde Baugh of the Fudge Shop, Gary Haddox of Main Street Botanicals, now The Conservatory, and Archie Scott.

The Christmas walk became known as Las Posadas in the early 80's; the entire event grew to become Christmas Traditions.

Christmas characters were added to the SMPS event with funding from CVB.