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The Outdoor Market on the Genisa patio drew steady crowds Friday evening, including shoppers who stopped by the booth of local creator Claudine Manor, owner of Beau’s, Crates and Crafts. Manor launched her handmade-goods business during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to support artisans and small makers across Wisconsin.

“Everything I sell is either made by me or by another small business,” she said. Her table showcased snarky ornaments, gift sets, candles, wax melts and holiday scents. “People have been fantastic. It’s been a great night.”

A standout attraction at her booth was a personalized ornament created on-site using her portable laser engraver. Many visitors requested family-name ornaments shaped like Christmas trees.

“I add the names into a template on my computer, and it arranges them to form the tree. Then I laser it so they can pick it up later tonight or tomorrow,” she explained.

While pine scents are consistent bestsellers, Manor noted a personal favorite.

“I love the fireside candle. It truly smells like you’re sitting in front of a fire.”

More information about Beau’s Crates and Crafts is on her .

The Jolly Jingle Executive Committee includes Downtown Janesville Inc., the Janesville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Avondale Roofing, and the City of Janesville. Organizers issued special thanks to longtime volunteer Sue Mellon, JATV, and the 20 partner organizations whose work makes the weekend possible.

Activities continued throughout downtown Friday night: the Holly Jolly Trolley, cocoa served by ECHO, character appearances, maker markets and more.

The evening culminated with a citywide tradition, the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree. Avondale Roofing’s Ryan Collette shared remarks celebrating the community spirit that defines Janesville.

City Manager Kevin Lahner then led the kids in crowd in a cheerful countdown, telling them to make it so loud that they could hear it at the North Pole.

“It brings us together in a way that feels uniquely Janesville,” Lahner said before. “We come out in the cold, greet our neighbors, and celebrate what makes this city such a special place.”

Then many families moved toward Town Square for the night’s grand finale: the fireworks show. Spectators lined the pedestrian bridge, shoulder to shoulder in the crisp winter air.

As the first burst cracked open the sky, silvers and golds shimmered against the snow-filled air, followed by deep reds and bright greens that danced across the sky.