GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — We may be weeks away from Halloween still—but for one Grand Rapids bar owner, it's already Christmas Day.
Broadway Bar on Broadway Avenue NW, which is decked out each year with Christmas decorations, has gotten a jump start on the holiday season.
Tom Schuitema, whose wife owns the bar, puts out the decorations each year. He said he starts after Labor Day with a goal of having every nook and cranny filled with holiday cheer by Nov. 1.
"With all the things that are going on in the world right now, we need someplace like this to bring everybody's spirits up," Schuitema said. "And we've been doing it for 30 years now, and I'm just trying to get a little jump start on it."
First walking into the bar can be jaw-dropping. Everywhere you look, there are Christmas trees, figurines of Santa Claus, garlands draped from the ceiling, and even an animatronic reindeer. Schuidema says he looks through stores each year to find new decorations to add.
While reservations are already filling up, Schuitema said the festive atmosphere is not the only reason people love to visit.
"Everybody that works here is either family or we consider them family," he said. "That's what people love about coming in here. It's nothing to do with these chains."
And for those who think Christmas decorations shouldn't be put out until after Thanksgiving, Schuitema has a simple response.
"It's never too early for Christmas."
If you're interested in visiting Broadway Bar, you're encouraged to make a reservation, which are only taken in person.
