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Well, good morning, Mrs. Johnson.
Keeping warm?
I am.
And hoping you are as well, Mr. Mayor.
Where's your scarf?
Wouldn't want you to get windswept, after all.
I appreciate the concern.
I'll have to wrangle one up.
Oh.
Now, you just take one of mine.
Aw.
We have plenty of extras this year at the store.
Very sweet of you. Thank you.
And you know what?
That reminds me, I haven't gotten my staff
anything for Christmas yet.
Would you please put a couple of these on hold for me?
I can.
OK.
Merry Christmas, Mr. Mayor.
Merry Christmas.
Hey, Mr. Mayor.
Hey, Sadie.
How's the bakery?
The bakery is great.
Outside the bakery, not as great.
Oh.
What's the problem?
There's a big crack in the sidewalk.
It's only gotten worse by the day.
Any chance--
Oh, I'm adding it to my list of city repairs right now.
Thanks, Mr. Mayor.
I'll save you a box of gingerbread muffins.
You spoil me, Sadie.
I got you.
Good morning, Mr. Reynolds.
What's the morning traffic report?
Mayor Ortega, look at this.
I'm looking.
At what, I'm not sure.
The traffic lights, they keep flickering.
We don't want it to cause any accidents.
Well, these gorgeous Long Grove winters
can wreak havoc on the bulbs.
Did you say "havoc"?
There's no place for havoc in Long Grove.
You're absolutely right about that, Mr. Reynolds.
I'll add streetlight maintenance
to the budget inquiry.
Until then, thank goodness you're
here to lend a helping hand.
And what about the tree?
The town tree.
It's on the docket for today's city council meeting.
We should buy a big one like Rockefeller Center.
Now, that's a tree!
Yes, sir!
Leigh, hey.
Did you hear from John?
Have we got the numbers yet?
He's here right now, actually.
He says he needs to talk to you.
And he seems-- worried.
That bad, huh?
All right, tell him I'll be right there.
After you go to the school.
The school?
I'm headed to the office right now.
Oh, the interview's this morning.
You pushed it twice already.
What's this journalist's name again?
Joey Delucca.
And he is quite insistent on getting this time with you.
All right.
Heading to the school now.
Thank you.
Long Grove, huh?
Who knew this place even existed?
50 miles from New York, but a world away.
New York or not-- oh!
- Oops. - Watch your steps.
Don't go busting anything.
You just got here.
Merry Christmas. - Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
Gami!
Nina!
Hi!
Oh.
- Oh, oh, oh, oh. - I'm sorry.
I forgot.
Oh, I forgot, too.
I am so sorry I couldn't make the trip to the city this year.
Oh, my goodness!
Don't be!
This is a wonderful excuse for me to come home.
It's been way too long.
It is so good to have you back.
- Oh, I'm so-- - Oh, oh.
Oh, wait, my bag.
Yeah.
Good one, Pop.
♪ Fa la, la, la, la
♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly
♪ Fa la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la ♪
♪ Don we now our gay apparel
♪ Fa la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la ♪
♪ Troll the ancient Yuletide carol ♪
♪ Fa la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la ♪
- Penny. - Mr. Mayor!
Bravo.
Mrs. Colvin, I had to see what that joyous sound was.
I thought you had a professional choir in here.
Mayor Ortega used to stand on those very same bleachers
when he was in the Christmas show.
Actually, I was really working backstage.
Uh, it looks a little different back there.
You mind if I check it out?
Of course not.
You take a stroll down memory lane, while we rehearse.
Okay kids. Silent Night.
♪ Silent night
♪ Holy night
♪ All is calm
♪ All is bright
Ladies and gentlemen, Ms. Nina Madden.
♪ Mother and child
♪ Holy infant so tender and mild ♪
♪ Sleep in heavenly peace
♪ Silent--
Wow.
night ♪
♪ Holy night
♪ Shepherds quake at
♪ The sight
♪ Glories stream from heaven afar ♪
♪ Heavenly hosts
My fourth grade Christmas list.
"Dear Santa, can you make
me dance like Fred Astaire?
My mom loves him."
Mr. Mayor, you must be looking for me.
I'm Joey Delucca.
Joey Delucca?
Yes, of course.
Joey Delucca.
I was looking for you.
For our interview, right?
Yeah.
Follow me.
OK.
Oh, nice!
Have a seat.
Thank you.
So, Mayor Ortega, I'm interested in doing
an article for our Christmas Day edition
about what makes you, you.
Snack?
I'm an open book.
And no, thank you.
Ah, maybe some juice.
Before we begin, I'll tell you what
I tell all of my interviewees.
It's best to speak from the heart
and not to think too much before you answer.
Think vulnerability.
Got it.
So, are you ready?
I hope so.
Do you believe in the spirit of Christmas?
I believe.
Go on?
Uh, yeah.
Yeah.
I believe in the spirit of Christmas.
And I love how this community comes together
to really show that spirit.
So what is the part of Christmas
that makes you the happiest?
It's making sure that every Long
Grove resident enjoys the holiday
season as much as possible.
If they're happy, I'm happy.
Uh, why aren't you writing?
Trust the process.
So your family has a lot of history in Long Grove, correct?
Yep.
My grandfather opened the very first general store here.
And my dad painted a lot of the murals
that you see on Main Street.
As a matter of fact, he painted that one over there.
Nice.
And my mom--
Yes?
Well, anyway, uh, there's a lot of history.
I'm proud to be part of this special town.
So what makes this town so special?
What makes Long Grove so amazing?
Um, I'm sorry.
What was the question again?
What makes Long Grove so amazing?
Um, well--
Uh, well, because, uh--
uh--
Maybe you should think about it and get back to me.
Wait.
It's over?
That's it?
For now.
Hey, Joey.
Last call for letters for the big guy.
Oh, hey, Hannah.
Actually, just throw this in there.
Thanks.
Mr. Mayor?
Um, OK, uh--
I'll be in touch.
OK.
See you soon.
Oh!
Oh, I wish I could have decorated
before you got here, but--
Oh, are you kidding?
I love this.
My shoebox apartment can barely fit a tabletop tree.
Oh, that looks nice.
Do you do this sort of thing when you plan those events?
Sometimes.
Last week, I had a Fortune 500 conference.
Oh.
The hours are crazy, but I'm making really good contacts.
Do you ever find time to sing anymore?
I barely have time for a home-cooked meal.
I mean, I sing in the shower, but not much anymore.
Oh, I'll help you, no problem.
No problem.
Here we go.
OK, now take that around.
Here it is.
OK.
Sure, that's good.
Got it.
Hello there!
Oh.
Uh, hi.
Uh, I don't think we've met before, Mr.--
Kringle.
Kris Kringle?
How'd you guess?
Ho, ho, ho, ho.
OK.
So, Kris, you, uh, new to Long Grove?
Uh, just visiting?
Ooh, I-- I try to make a trip here at least once a year.
Of course you do.
Well, glad you're back.
I'm Mayor Ortega.
Anything you need, here to help.
Actually, this trip was unexpected.
Do you know a place I could stay for a couple of days?
Uh, yeah, the-- the Holly Inn is a nice place.
It's right over there.
Well, thank you, Brian.
Uh, that-- that's my alarm for the city council meeting.
I-- I should get going.
But again, if there's anything you need, I'm here to help.
Oh, that's funny.
I was going to say the same thing.
He's really going all out this year.
Did that Santa guy put you up to this?
Hey, you guys are good.
Yes.
What just happened?
Hey, excuse me, Mr. Reynolds.
What-- what was that?
What was what?
The-- the music and the dancing.
What-- what just happened?
What happened is I need a place to put all these wreaths!
Should I hang them on the new gazebo?
Uh, why don't-- why don't you try the fence over there?
All right.
Just give us the date, and I'll make sure I'll put it in.
Yes, I got you.
You put it in the calendar.
"Dear Santa, can you make me dance like Fred Astaire?
My mom loves him."
Actually, this trip was unexpected.
Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho.
There's no way.
Look.
Huh?
Not a lot of guests these days.
I think those are the same exact jars
from when I was a little girl.
Probably.
Oh, if we have time, we should--
time.
I'm going to be late.
For what?
The city council meeting.
Oh.
I'm a business owner.
I attend every one.
Hi.
Hey, John.
Talk to me.
How bad is it?
Well, as you know, the past two years, we've
seen a decrease in all areas.
I know, but those years were supposed to be just a blip.
The-- the blip is still very much still blipping.
Mr. Mayor, tourism is down again,
and city maintenance is up.
So--
Those ads in the upstate magazines
and tax incentive not working?
It's hard to compete with a spa resort they
just built in Holly Falls.
Everyone loves a spa.
Does everyone love a spa, though?
I know I do.
Look-- look, the numbers don't lie, Brian.
We need to go in there and turn this around and--
and reverse it.
But also-- but also go forward.
And, OK, we need to take what we have
and make what we have fit what we need.
So take what we have.
Make what we have fit what we need.
Look, I don't know what you're saying,
but the meeting's starting.
Got to get in there.
Let's not sound the alarm until we can figure out
some solutions moving forward.
Let's put on a good face.
Let the town know we're on top of it.
Yeah.
So, a busy year, everyone.
Let me-- uh, lots of goings on that, uh,
um-- that continue going on.
Well, we have gotten your requests to add to the budget
numbers upon numbers.
Do I have a fever?
You feel OK to me.
The budget is full of fullness.
Well, no, the numbers are busy.
No, we are-- we are working.
Uh, we are-- we're stretching--
Yes, yes.
Yes, we are.
Thank you so much.
Really appreciate that, yes.
Let me translate.
I think we have a lot of budget requests for this coming year.
Brian Ortega?
I went to elementary school with him.
Now, with Christmas, uh, around the corner,
I'd like to ask if we have any volunteers who
would spearhead this year's, uh, tree donation?
Anyone?
OK.
Thank you.
Mr. Kringle, my assistant, Leigh,
will be in touch with the details.
Hi.
Well, it sounds like next year is going
to be one for the record books, a time where we can really see
some growth in areas that--
Uh, Mr. Mayor, may I address the town for a moment, please?
Yes.
Randall, of course.
Thank you. Thank you.
Uh, hi there.
You all probably know me.
I'm Randall Withers of Withers Development
Company, longtime and proud resident of Long Grove.
By the way, I hope you all have been
enjoying the gazebo that I recently
installed in the town square.
Yes?
Ah, ah, please, please.
Withers Development Company recently
bought the plot of land just south of Main Street.
And I have a proposal that I think
will ultimately bring some increased
revenue into Long Grove.
And that plan is this--
a luxury outdoor pedestrian mall
complete with mainstream brands and chain restaurants and--
wait for it-- a spa.
Oh!
And all I would need to do in order to achieve this is buy
the five properties along the southernmost part of
Main Street.
Isn't the Inn on the southern side of Main Street?
And of course, I will enumerate
all of these shop owners handsomely to do so, yes.
So we have all seen what Holly Falls has done
with their outgrowth and their expansion,
and I see no reason why Long Grove shouldn't take a page out
of their playbook and also make a little, uh,
moolah for ourselves, right?
Do something.
Uh, Randall, thank you.
Thank you.
Really, really appreciate your time.
Oh, all right.
And we'll, uh-- we'll definitely
consider the possibility.
However, I don't think we need to make
any decisions right away.
We have Christmas ahead and--
and--
And I am proposing a big bonanza,
a Christmas town festival.
Well, I'm glad I'm here for this.
Yes, yes, it could be a fundraiser of sorts,
but also a way to get some publicity out
there for all Long Grove already has to offer.
The money from the ticket sales will be a nice little boost,
and it's a great way to celebrate this town.
We can have festive food, uh, holiday games,
and that thing you hammer and it hits the bell?
The High Striker!
Yes, the High Striker.
Nina?
Nina Madden?
Yes, the-- the High Striker.
Thank you, Nina Madden.
Look, we have a lot to plan, but I hope you're as
excited as I am for the, uh--
the-- the Claus for Celebration.
Great name!
Thank you, everyone.
Oh, thank you.
Good to see you.
All right.
Oh, Mr. Mayor, I think we should talk soon.
Yeah, why don't you come by my office tomorrow afternoon?
Right, excellent. Progress--
Yeah, that'd be great.
equals profits.
Brian.
Nina.
Sorry to catch you off guard up there.
I was more caught off guard that anyone knew
the name for the High Striker. - Oh, yeah.
You, uh, home for long?
I'm visiting my grandmother at the Inn.
I was overdue for a Long Grove Christmas, so.
Oh, that's great.
So you'll be in town for the new festival?
Yes, and I love the name, by the way.
Oh, the Claus for Celebration?
Yeah, that just sort of came to me.
Mayor Ortega, I need your signature on these.
Oh, sorry to interrupt.
Oh, no worries.
I have to get back to my grandmother anyway.
I just wanted to say hello.
Glad you did.
- Mr. Mayor. - Yes?
I didn't hear anything in the city
council meeting about those flickering traffic lights.
It could be they just need replace the bulbs,
or-- or maybe it's just some grime and gunk
that got back there over time.
Hi again.
Hannah.
Are you looking for Joey?
Actually, I was looking for you.
Today, you had that box, that Letters to Santa box?
Right, I painted that myself.
The stripes took forever.
Do you want me to make you one?
No.
Thank you, though.
I mean, it was lovely, but, um, I--
what did you do with the letters in the box?
I put them in the mailbox and sent them to the North Pole.
The North Pole?
How else would Santa get them?
You can't just make a wishlist.
You have to send it off.
It's a two-step process, from what I understand.
True.
Merry Christmas, Mr. Mayor.
Let me know if you change your mind about the box.
Merry Christmas, Hannah.
Once you're 30, you can't even remember
what you had for breakfast.
Reminder, you have dinner with your dad tonight.
And we need to track down that Kris Kringle for the Christmas
tree donations.
♪ Silent night
♪ Holy night
♪ All is calm
♪ All is bright
♪ Round yon virgin
♪ Mother and child
♪ Holy infant so tender--
Sorry, I didn't realize I had an audience.
Please, don't stop singing on my account.
You sound amazing.
Thanks.
Uh, let me help you.
It's, uh-- it's kind of a strange thing to brag about,
but I'm actually really good at Christmas decorations.
The key is you gotta twist the branch.
And then they, boom, pop up like that.
See? - Nice.
Well, it's amazing to see the talents you've
learned since I've been gone, never
mind the whole mayor thing.
Ah, never mind that.
So what have you been up to for the last--
Oh, please do not calculate the year
since the fourth grade.
Way too many to count.
Good point.
What have you been up to the last few years since you moved?
Uh, let me guess-- uh, lead singer in a band?
Married?
Dog named Hamilton?
No, not even remotely close.
Single.
I gave up singing a few years ago,
and I primarily focus on event planning
and a cat named Hamilton.
Seriously?
No.
His name is Romeo.
You haven't changed.
A little help?
Oh.
Thank you.
I gotcha, Rotha.
Whatcha doing here, Mr. Mayor?
Oh, I'm just grilling your granddaughter
about her beautiful voice.
I say the same thing.
How's your dad?
I haven't seen him in ages.
He's good.
I'm on my way there after this, actually.
Oh, please tell him I said hi.
I will.
Now, uh, how's your arm?
What do you need?
Well, after today, I need all the strength I can find
after hearing Randall's plans.
Just try to take the Inn from me.
Oh, you tell him, Gami.
Mm.
You have nothing to worry about.
He can have all the big plans he wants,
but ultimately, it's your choice.
We may not be full every night,
but as long as we have guests, I'm not going anywhere.
Actually, uh, that's why I came by to see you.
I had a question about a possible guest of yours.
Oh, not to help me decorate?
That, too.
What guest?
Uh, this may sound kind of funny, but is there
a Kris Kringle staying here?
Who?
Room 21.
Wait, really?
He's a lovely guest. Very tidy.
Big fan of my cookies.
Oh.
Well, he volunteered a Christmas tree for the town.
Wait.
If-- if you need a tree, you are
welcome to check the back property here at the Inn.
That's where we got this beauty.
Oh, that's a good-looking tree.
Oh, we've got three acres of woods back there.
Glen and I always talked about adding
some hotel amenities at some point,
but we never got around to it.
Uh, are you free tomorrow, perhaps, for a Christmas
tree adventure?
Sure, yeah.
Tomorrow morning?
Uh, I'll bring some hot chocolate for your troubles.
Hmm.
Extra marshmallows.
See you tomorrow morning.
Extra marshmallows.
Don't forget.
Hey, Dad, it's me.
I got cheeseburgers.
I'm in the studio!
Wow.
You've been busy, huh?
Yeah, lots of commissions this time of year.
People love giving paintings as Christmas presents, you know.
I have two ready to be shipped.
I mean, if you want to swing by the post office for me?
Of course I'll take them, Dad.
I just thought maybe you'd like to get out.
Decorations are going up.
The town looks beautiful right now.
I'll take your word for it.
Once I get in the zone with my work, I just--
just want to hunker down, you know?
Yeah.
I know, Dad.
Hey, you know, I was at the elementary school
earlier today, and I saw the festival painting of yours.
When did you donate that?
Yeah, a couple of years ago when I was cleaning
stuff up after your mom--
She always liked that one, too.
Said she wanted to just jump in there and dance forever.
Something you want to tell me?
Well, uh, remember, uh--
remember when Mom and I used to watch those old Fred Astaire
dance movies when I was a kid?
Yeah, of course.
All right, well, let's start there.
Randall!
Just the man I wanted to see.
I thought we were meeting this afternoon.
You bringing me some wrapping paper?
Not exactly.
Uh, I just thought we could get a headstart.
Future of Long Grove can't wait, after all.
Huh.
Is that coffee I smell?
Let me get you a cup.
Thanks.
Oh.
So what is all this?
Thank you.
Well, uh, after your very timely announcement
of the festival the other day, something interesting
has come up.
I went down to the surveyor's office
and had Long Grove's lot lines rechecked.
OK.
Were you aware that this piece of land right here,
my recently purchased land, has been
used as Long Grove's unofficial events grounds for years?
It-- it's true.
You can see it right there.
See?
No, I--
I wasn't aware.
Hmm.
And I'm-- I'm just assuming that's where you're planning
on having the festival, right?
Yeah?
Hmm.
Brian, look, we're on the same team here, right?
We both grew up in Long Grove.
I want people to enjoy this town for generations
to come as much as you do.
And I think this will help.
Just-- just take a look.
Yeah?
Mm.
Wow! - Yeah?
Told you.
This is good.
Hal's has the best in town.
Mayor's not supposed to choose favorites,
so you didn't hear that from me.
Ah.
You know, I'm not surprised, by the way.
That I chose the best hot chocolate?
- That you're the mayor. - Hmm.
You're always the first one to raise
your hand to collect the lunch trays or wash the chalkboard.
Ah, what can I say?
I like to help out.
I didn't realize there was so much property back here.
I know, right?
I played out here all the time when I was a little girl.
A cool place to be a kid.
You know, my grandparents bought this
the week they got married?
She's not gonna give it up.
I got a visit from Randall this morning.
He thinks he has a plan that can really help Long Grove,
but I'm not so sure.
He's trying to derail our festival plans.
Is there anything that you can do?
I'm working on it, but getting
new permits for the rides for a new location is--
Who needs rides?
I mean, we could bring in gorgeous ice sculptures
or hundreds of poinsettias or-- or maybe even one of those--
I think you may be misjudging our budget just a bit.
OK, OK.
So we'll get creative.
OK?
I love a challenge.
Well, we need a venue first.
Hey, Brian!
What about this one?
Yeah, well.
Has-- has this always been here?
It's perfect, actually.
Yeah, good-- great find.
It's sort of my thing.
Kris Kringle.
It's good to see you again.
Do you want me to get this tree into town for you?
By yourself?
Not a problem.
I do it all the time.
Well, that would actually allow us more time
to go look for another venue.
Yeah, OK. Uh, great.
Well, you kids run along.
Enjoy the ride.
I'm sorry?
I said, enjoy your time.
- Oh, watch it!
- Oh, thank you. - Sorry.
Pothole. - Better move that.
It's on the list.
Well, I guess you'd better
add this to the list as well.
Unbelievable.
Yeah.
What's one more thing?
I'll call a tow.
- Yo, Brian. - Yeah?
Your alternator is messed up.
I can get it back to you two days, tops.
Days?
Not exactly what I was hoping to hear.
I'm not gonna leave you hanging.
I got you covered.
I got you a loaner.
Let me get those keys.
All right.
Did you hear that?
The doorbell?
Oh, I thought it was something else.
All right, check it out.
Just got her in today.
A little paperwork nonsense, but I think
it's going to do just fine.
A '57 Chevy Corvette?
Ooh, I love the candy cane red!
This is my childhood dream car.
Like, exactly.
What a coincidence.
"Drive a '57 cherry red Corvette."
Wow.
Ah, OK.
Seeing how it feels?
You don't care if I drive it first, do you?
I've never driven a classic car.
Yeah, sure.
You can go first.
Hey, what's another 15 minutes after I've waited 30 years?
Have I mentioned how much I miss Long Grove?
Once or twice.
Why is this so good?
'Cause it's Christmas, and everything
tastes better at Christmas.
Do you know that Christmas morning
feeling when you open a gift?
It's like a mixture between curiosity and--
Exhilaration.
Yes.
I'm sorry our search for a venue today
turned into a total greasy garage.
You mean you're sorry I got to hang out
with you in an awesome car and have
the best fudge I've ever had?
Don't be.
I should get you back to the inn.
However, this time, I'm driving.
Oh. OK, we'll see.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
I'll make sure you get in the passenger side.
After you, miss.
Wait, is that--
No way.
He got that here all by himself?
Hey, Kris!
That looks great!
OK, well, that's one less thing we need to worry about.
Now we just need a venue.
Randall.
My late husband and I built this business
from the ground up.
It's an amazing offer.
It really is.
But the Inn means too much to me.
Of course.
Of course, Rotha.
I understand.
But you do have to remind yourself of what this place is
going to feel like when you go from virtually
no guests to no guests at all.
Is everything OK, Gami?
Anything we can help you with, Randall?
No, but thank you very much.
I'm just talking to my friend Rotha here.
Oh, have you had a chance to consider
that proposal I mentioned?
Actually, I've been a little too busy with the festival,
finding ways to celebrate this town rather than change it.
The-- the festival, your little thing.
Count me in for several tickets.
Anything for Long Grove, right?
Just, uh-- just let me know where and when.
Emphasis on the where, of course.
It's going to be here.
The Claus for Celebration is going to be here.
Hey, there we go.
Location handled.
How many tickets would you like there, Randall?
Uh, I'll-- I'll get back to you on that.
Offer still stands, Ms. Madden.
Have a good one.
You too.
Hey!
That's awesome.
We have the room, and I'm a good cook.
Yeah.
OK.
OK, I've started a list.
So you'll get the permits in order.
And I will work with Gami to get the property ready to host.
And then--
You don't have to do this, Nina.
I-- I appreciate it, but I know you're here to visit
your grandmother, not help me.
I may have moved to the city, but Long
Grove will always be my home.
So, like I was saying, let's make a list.
List.
Nina, do you by chance happen to remember your fourth grade
Christmas list?
Fourth grade?
Uh, I'm sure it had something to do with singing.
Did that ever come true for you?
Yeah, it did for a little while.
But then I became an adult, and I had to get a real job.
So you started planning events.
It's a much different life than I had imagined.
But it is what it is.
You still sing?
Only when I'm happy.
What about you, Mr. Mayor?
What's on your fourth grade Christmas list?
This is crazy, but, uh--
Wilson, hey.
Oh, that was quick.
Uh, all right.
Thanks.
I'll, uh-- I'll see you in a few.
Huh.
My car is ready.
What is it?
Nothing.
It's-- it's nice to see you again.
Same.
I have an elementary school thing tomorrow.
We host this annual Christmas toy drive.
You should come.
I would love to.
Perfect.
All right, then.
Well, you go enjoy your last drive in my car.
Right, your car.
I'll see you tomorrow.
Hey.
It's like you drove it out of the poster in your room.
I know, right?
I'm on my way to return it, but I wanted you to see it first.
This is from the list again, yeah?
I think so.
Wish number 2.
You know, with great power comes great responsibility.
Isn't that from Spider-Man?
Winston Churchill, but close!
Well, don't worry, Dad.
I've already got some inspiration.
We're moving the festival to Rotha's property.
You seem to be excited.
Glad to see you having some fun.
Well, come on. Hop in.
We'll go for a little spin.
I want to show you the houses with the best decorations.
No, no, I--
I've gotta get back.
OK, maybe real quick.
Come on.
See the decorations and maybe
a little coffee and, you know.
- There you go. - I got that.
You ready?
Yeah.
Winston, hi.
Thanks for coming.
Ah, it's a great day for giving.
Oh, it's good to see you.
Eh, a stuffed animal.
A reindeer is my guess.
There's a lump of coal or a game system.
I'm hoping this is an instrument of some kind.
Ho, ho, ho, everyone.
Hey.
Welcome to the Long Grove charity toy drive.
Man, this guy is everywhere.
We appreciate your generosity.
And all donations from today will
go to help families in need.
Hey.
Sorry I'm late.
Hey, you made it!
I wouldn't miss it.
Mrs. Colvin?
Nina Madden?
You remember me?
Oh, ho!
I can't believe you're back.
And of course I remember you.
Your voice was unforgettable.
- Aw. - See?
I'm not the only one.
While you're in town, you should
stop by during rehearsal.
I would love that.
Oh, great.
Yes, for sure.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
I'm Joey Delucca, Long Grove school newspaper editor
and Mayor Ortega's friend.
So nice to meet you, Joey Delucca.
I'm Nina Madden.
I used to go to this school forever ago with Brian.
Oh, really?
So you probably have some great insight
into how Brian was as a kid.
Oh, yeah, yeah.
Don't get any ideas there, Joey.
We'll talk later.
Hey.
Whoa!
Mr. Mayor, take a shot.
Uh, no, no, no, no.
No one wants to see that.
Mr. Mayor, I'll tell you what.
If you can make it from half court,
I will donate $5,000 to your favorite Long Grove charity.
Huh?
Oh.
Hey, this isn't a good idea.
Aw, come on.
Do it for Long Grove, huh? - Yeah!
Yeah.
You have to do it. Come on.
I believe in you.
You gotta do it.
All right.
Take the shot.
So much charity for one day.
Isn't it wonderful?
All right, settle down, everyone.
Shoot your shot, Brian.
Yeah!
Look at that, Brian.
Let's hear it for Mayor Ortega and a $5,000 donation to?
Uh, the Anna Ortega Dance Foundation.
Whoa!
What was that?
A little Christmas spirit, I guess.
Woo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo, yeah!
Oh, my gosh.
"Make a basket from half court in front of the whole school."
Hey, you disappeared.
I just kind of had to soak that up for a minute.
That was wild!
- I know, right? - Yes!
Wait a second.
Is that the--
Oh.
How does it smell the exact same?
Like piano keys and--
Painted plywood.
Hey, here we go.
That's better.
Ah.
You know, my parents used to sit right there, front left.
My mom would always wink and wave at me through the crack
in the curtain.
I bet she's so proud of you.
You know, I've been back here for two days,
and all I see is how much you take care of others.
It kind of comes with the job.
No, it comes with the person.
You know, I didn't get a chance to ask you yesterday,
what is something that makes you happy?
Real Cokes, classic cars, classic Christmas movies,
putting away my cell phone and putting on some music
and, uh, watching my dad paint.
Oh, good stuff.
You know, being here on stage with you
makes me pretty happy also.
Cue the spotlight.
♪ Da da da, da da da, da
Actually, I think it might have went a little more like--
♪ Da da da, da da da da da da
♪ Da da da
Turn, and stop.
OK, stage crew.
You learn a thing or two after
watching so many rehearsals.
Dance with me.
No no, I couldn't keep up.
Yeah, you can.
Come on.
Just try.
Sorry, I got carried away a little bit.
You should have tried out for the show.
Yeah, no, I like to be backstage.
Yeah, always taking care of others.
Brian, they're waiting for you to take photos
with the student council.
Right.
Coming.
♪ What's come over me?
♪ Everything I see
♪ The colors seem brighter for sure ♪
♪ The old eyes see anew
♪ I haven't got a clue
♪ Why I couldn't see it before ♪
♪ In the comfort of home
♪ I feel such a thrill
♪ The best that I've known
♪ I'm lifted and filled
♪ I've never felt this kind of bliss ♪
♪ Oh, what have I missed
♪ As I reminisce
♪ I can't figure it out
♪ By seeing all this
♪ It's touching me now
♪ I've never felt this kind of bliss ♪
♪ Oh, what have I missed
They just don't make them like that anymore.
They sure don't.
They just don't make them like Fred
Astaire anymore either.
Oh, come on.
He was one of a kind.
So, what's next on the list?
I wish I knew.
Mm.
Oh, Dad, I wanted to ask you a favor.
What's up?
Well, we need a local artist for the ornament station
to help people paint the ornaments
and hang them on the tree.
You know.
Well, let me think about that a little bit.
I mean, that's-- that's a lot of people.
Take your time.
It's all good.
By the way, I forgot to tell you that I went to the school
auditorium yesterday and saw the-- the backdrop
that they had in the corner for the Christmas show.
And, oh, man, it--
it didn't look good.
It was-- oof.
What do you mean?
The-- the snow wasn't right, and-- and the painting
was cracked.
And it just looked real rundown, like they'd been
using the same one for ages.
Rundown, huh?
Mm.
Well, I'm almost finished with my commissions
for the end of the year.
Maybe-- maybe I could see if Mrs. Colvin
could use a little help.
That's a great idea.
I never thought of that.
Yeah.
I'm on to you, pal.
Hey, Nina.
Are you down for some crepes?
Who's Nina?
All right, I'll pick you up.
Now, who's Nina?
See you later, Dad.
Who's Nina?
Here you go.
Ooh, thank you.
Huh?
Mm!
Seriously?
Better than New York.
I mean, maybe because I'm not eating on the go.
I'm sitting and savoring each bite,
appreciating the atmosphere, enjoying my company.
You forget how great Long Grove is.
You've been in New York for too long.
It was just a matter of time.
Are you OK?
Yeah.
No, not really.
Are you worried about the festival?
Not just the festival.
Beyond the festival.
I love this town.
It's just that these other towns,
they have these big spas and these--
these brand new shopping centers.
And it's just getting hard to keep up.
I'm not sure I'm doing what's best.
I get it.
You want to keep Long Grove as it's always been
and how it should always be.
Just trust yourself.
And don't give in to--
Randall?
Yes, Randall.
No, Randall.
Is he coming?
Good morning.
We'd really love to get you on board, too.
Enjoy your breakfast.
It's time to make this festival great.
We need to get the word out.
Joey.
OK.
So this is where you come to think.
I have a little brother.
And he needs a Christmas present.
Don't read too much into it.
Could you, um, print this flyer in your school newspaper?
Trying to get the word out to all the families in town.
Of course, but it doesn't get you
out of your Christmas piece.
Hey, you scratch my back, I scratch yours.
Deal?
Deal.
So where's this shindig gonna be held?
The Holly Inn.
It's the perfect place to host a festival
for this amazing town.
And?
What makes Long Grove so amazing?
Well--
The only place in the world that has a sock monkey museum?
Exactly.
Mr. Mayor, I'll be in touch.
Well?
How'd it go.
Joey is going to get the word out to the kids and parents.
And we can distribute the rest of these.
Great.
I'm doing the right thing, right?
Yes.
I'm not going to let Withers take over this town, right?
No.
OK.
Good.
This town is lucky to have you.
I am the mayor.
I've already told you, it's the person.
Now come on, stage crew.
We've gotta get this town excited for a festival.
Thank you, and you have a glorious day.
Mr. Mayor!
How's the peppermint soap feeling?
Like Christmas morning.
Hey, Winston, would you be willing to put
up a soap booth for the Claus for Celebration Festival?
Your homemade soaps are next-level.
I'd love to.
Nice!
I have to try and figure out what scents
the festivalgoers would like.
Oh, maybe Cinnamon Ginger.
That's a good one.
I'll leave you to it, Winston.
Thanks for the suds.
Vanilla Sugarplum.
Ooh, maybe some Winterberry Bubble Bath.
Brian.
Here to collect your scarves?
That, and to see if you'd be interested in setting up
a booth for the store at the festival.
Maybe really get some of this inventory moving?
I love that idea.
We're in! - Nice!
Thank you.
Sure.
I'll take this one in red if you have it.
Good choice.
Oh, what a day.
Sounds like you could use this.
Ah.
OK.
Oh.
So you can always keep Long Grove close after you leave
and go back to New York.
Yeah.
You OK?
Yeah.
No, not really.
I'm just thinking what life would have been
like if we hadn't moved.
Yeah.
I've thought about that, too.
I wanted to tell you something.
I have something to tell you, too.
You can go first.
I just found out we're moving at the end of the year.
My dad got a job in New York.
Oh.
What did you want to tell me?
Nothing as exciting as your news.
I'll miss Long Grove, though.
I'll miss you.
Brian, the curtains.
Nina, you're on.
Ladies and gentlemen, Miss Nina Madden.
Hi, Leigh.
I'm not sure I can hold down the fort without you
much longer.
Yeah, I'm so sorry.
We've just been busy with Claus for Celebration stuff.
Well, I had about 12 calls today adding
to the list for maintenance.
All right, I'll be right there.
Sorry, but--
It-- it's OK.
Go ahead.
I have to go see Mrs. Colvin anyway.
See you later.
The most famous artist to come
out of Long Grove, and my family's favorite painter.
I have a Michael Ortega original hanging
in my apartment right now in New York City.
Every time I look at it, it reminds me of home.
Art always seems to do that, doesn't it?
I mean, it's beautiful.
I love how you captured the Long Grove bridge,
but you can't forget about the new town tree.
You know, I don't think I've seen it yet.
I'm Nina Madden.
Young Nina Madden, most famous singer to ever
come out of Long Grove.
Mm.
And you're my family's favorite artist.
Well, I didn't have quite the same success.
I'm successful because I get to paint every day,
no matter where or for whom.
It's what I am.
And without it, I wouldn't be me.
You're a singer.
You love to sing.
Success is finding a way to do it, no matter where you are.
Oh!
Yay, Nina's here.
Well, I think that's my cue.
Get a better look at that town tree, huh?
Our friend, Nina, is here
today to help us sing and get our voices in great shape.
OK, let's warm up.
Repeat after me.
La, la, la, la, la, la, la.
La, la, la, la, la, la.
Good!
And just, uh, sign.
There.
Perfect. All right.
Thank you.
All right.
Hey, there it is.
You've got other things to do.
Let me finish up here.
You sure about that?
Trust me.
Thank you.
He's doing it.
It's like a movie.
"Wish number four, a white Christmas dance solo."
The light looks great.
It's-- it's like a movie.
Make a wish.
What'd you wish for?
If I tell you, it won't come true.
I'll take my chances.
Here you go.
Thank you.
You know, Joey's actually a really good writer.
Hey, I knew my boy could write.
I feel like we're in a really good position for the festival.
Now we just need the town to show up.
Oh, Mayor Ortega.
What's up, John?
Uh, may I have a word?
Sure.
Oh, you can speak freely.
Ok.
Um, I tried everything, OK?
The numbers are not numbering the way we want them to.
There are several numbers which are truly--
Whoa, whoa.
Slow down.
We still have hundreds of tickets left.
This-- this fundraiser, it's not even
gonna be able to cover the cost of the maintenance budget
for the next year.
And we're nowhere near that.
So none of the outreach to Holly
Falls, Redmont, Hammond, Greenwood, none of that worked?
It's gonna take more than a festival to fix our problems.
We need some-- we need something drastic to change.
We are out of options.
What are we gonna do?
Am I the only one in this town
that wants to keep it as it is?
Maybe I'm the one that needs to change.
Brian.
I just--
I just need to think right now.
I'll see y'all later.
Even when he's sad, he's really handsome, you know.
Do it for Long Grove.
Brian?
Hello.
I was pleasantly surprised to get your call.
Thank you, Leigh.
Hi.
I was on my way home, but I feel like we need to talk.
Is this about your meeting with Randall?
Please tell me you did not make a deal with him.
It's not as simple as it looks.
If you sign those papers and the last shop agrees,
it'll just be Rotha against all of you.
Actually, it'll be Rotha and me against all of you.
I don't know what to do other than embrace the reality.
This town's not going to be able to keep up.
Even with the Claus for Celebration,
even if I fix every streetlight by myself,
it's-- it's not gonna work.
So that's it, huh?
Well, Mr. Mayor, you do what you gotta do.
Hi.
This young man wanted to interview me because he's
doing a story on you.
I suggested we all talk.
I don't think this is a good time.
Let's talk about why.
Because I'm in way too honest a mood.
Yes!
So you're telling me Santa is here,
and your fourth grade wish list is coming true?
Item by item.
And even though it's fun and exciting and even
a little crazy, it's not really giving me what I want anymore.
And worst of all, the woman I love is mad at me.
So if you can make your wishlist now, as a grown-up,
what would be on it?
Good question.
First of all, I'd wish that everyone could see the charming
gem that Long Grove is before it becomes another
high-end shopping center.
It's-- it's quaint and unique and beautiful.
And the people here are some of the best you'll find.
I know the hot chocolate isn't from France.
And-- and the scarves aren't cashmere,
and we don't have a spa.
But I wish there was a way to remind
people that bells and whistles aren't
what makes something special.
We're so much more than all that,
especially during the holidays.
We're like that warm, happy Christmas feeling all
year long.
That is a great wish.
And next, I'd make the town's Clause for Celebration
a success without stretching the town's non-existent budget.
I wish these people could see that they don't need to have
a big festival for others.
They alone are reason enough to celebrate.
It's-- it's all the love they pour into everything
and into everyone they meet.
That's enough reason to celebrate right there.
This community deserves so much more than I can give it.
And I just--
I just wish I would have figured
it out in time for Christmas.
And finally, I wish I had the courage
to tell Nina Madden how I really feel about her
before she leaves again.
- Great! - Great!
Great?
That was awesome.
This is what I was talking about when I
said to speak from the heart.
Mr. Mayor, I can't solve your problems,
but I can say that are doing a great job,
and I wish that you saw that.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with the Long Grove
Elementary School Newspaper.
Wait, I-- I kind of blacked out.
What'd I say?
It sounds like you finally figured out what
makes Long Grove so amazing.
Like you said, the people of this town
are the best there is.
Go talk to your people.
They'll understand.
Dinner at my house, one hour.
Joey!
Hi.
I made copies.
I'm sorry?
Brian's interview.
We finished, and I thought before I published it,
you would want to see it first.
Hey, these are cool.
Oh, hey.
Maybe I'll take them to the festival.
You know, sell them at the ornament station.
That'd be great.
I've been thinking a lot about you
and your mom this Christmas.
I can see why you like being involved in the community.
I've really gotten a lot out of the small amount I've given.
Dad, I don't know what I'm going to do about this Claus
for Celebration.
We don't have enough attractions.
We haven't sold enough tickets.
We don't--
Let me stop you right there.
What do you mean by saying that you don't have?
What do you have?
We got Hal Bakery's gingerbread muffins
and hot chocolate, a cup of Grove coffee, and--
It's a great start.
We basically have everything that Long Grove has to offer.
Exactly right.
That's enough.
Oh, my god.
Hey.
I need a favor.
Are you familiar with the town of Long Grove?
Well, have I got a story for you.
Nina!
Gami, are you OK?
We're fully booked.
What?
The Inn is fully booked.
The papers all have this article.
You won't-- you won't believe what it says.
Well, I saw a sneak peek.
So many bookings.
Nina.
You were right, Nina.
I can't wish away these problems
or take them on myself.
I need to tell everyone what's going on.
Look at this.
It looks like the story got out about Long Grove.
Joey's story went national.
Wow.
I guess I underestimated Joey.
He had a little help.
The best part about being an event planner
are all the contacts that you make.
So, if you've read the article, then you know--
Yeah.
I'm kind of crazy about you, too.
But right now, we need to figure
out how we're going to fit all these people into Long Grove.
There's people coming?
Yes, for the Claus for Celebration.
The Inn is booked from Christmas through New Year's.
And 4th of July is booking up fast.
Brian, you did it.
Not yet.
Hey, Leigh, we need to call an emergency City Hall meeting.
That's right.
So I'm sure you've all seen the papers.
Well, first of all, I'd just like to apologize.
I haven't exactly been honest with you on how much trouble
this town has been in.
And-- and that was wrong.
What makes Long Grove so amazing?
A really talented journalist and close friend of mine
has been asking me why I think it's so special, and I--
I couldn't really answer that until today.
I realized that what makes this place special is
the love within the community and the authenticity
of our town.
This-- this is the place that people go to take
a break from the daily grind.
And it took all of you to remind me of that.
People want to get back to the simple, happy pleasures
that Long Grove is so abundant in,
and that's what we're going to remind
them of with this festival.
And you know what?
They're going to come back the next time they
need to feel that connection.
And they're going to tell their friends
that Long Grove is the town that isn't trying to keep up.
We may be 50 miles from New York,
but we are very proudly a world away.
However, I'm gonna need your help.
I could bring my new litter of kittens for people to pet.
Yeah, I love that.
I could decorate my tractor like a sleigh and give rides.
That'd be great.
All right.
Who's with me?
Was all this on your wishlist?
Oh, you read about my wishlist?
Yeah.
Yeah, it's true.
Hey, how you doing?
Please.
Please come in.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
As promised, your favorite.
Oh, thank you, Sadie.
Mm!
Yes.
This is great.
What's your story?
Ooh, you got a nice coloring going.
Yeah.
Have a fun time.
- Hey there. - Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Brian.
Merry Christmas, Randall.
You know, I see a lot of faces here I don't recognize.
I like it.
Well, word must have got out that Long Grove is
the perfect Christmas town--
as is
Yes.
Oh, which reminds me, at some point,
I would love to bend your ear about how to best use my lot.
Hmm.
Oh, well, my grandmother has always wanted to expand--
tennis court, pool.
That's interesting.
Or maybe an art gallery.
Ah, I like the sound of that.
I wouldn't even mind helping get it off the ground.
Withers Galleria d'Arte.
Ortega's.
Eh, spitballing.
Either way, we'll be talking soon.
Lots of exciting things to discuss.
Yeah?
Absolutely.
Have a good night, guys.
Hey there, Mr. Journalist of the Year.
Hey there, Mr. Mayor of the Year.
I don't know what to say, Joey.
Uh, thanks for getting it out of me.
A good writer knows.
The story will always reveal itself in time.
Couldn't have done it without you, kid.
Stop it already.
I gotta go find Hannah.
She promised me to do that thing with the, uh--
the hammer, the, uh--
Hey, Joey.
Come on.
The High Striker.
Have fun.
This is better than I could have ever imagined.
The numbers are happy.
Very happy. - Great.
Do you want to do the cotton candy with me?
- I'd love to. - OK.
Come on.
No, wait.
OK.
Congratulations, Brian.
Thank you for all your help.
I-- I--
I don't know if you're--
if you're, uh--
I don't know how much you had to do with--
Oh.
I, uh, found this.
Is this yours?
I don't need that anymore.
All my wishes came true.
Well, almost all.
Ladies and gentlemen, Ms. Nina Madden.
This is for you, stage crew.
♪ What's come over me?
♪ Everything I see
♪ The colors seem brighter for sure ♪
♪ The old I see anew
♪ I haven't got a clue
♪ Why I couldn't see it before ♪
♪ The comfort of home
♪ Now feels such a thrill
♪ The best that I've known
♪ Uplifted and filled
♪ I've never felt this kind of bliss ♪
♪ Oh, what have I missed?
♪ I see it so clear
♪ I figured it out
♪ I'm staying right here
♪ 'Cause I can't live without
♪ The feeling of this kind of bliss ♪
♪ You're my Christmas wish