The Cleveland City Council's recent Economic Development Corporation (EDC) meeting highlighted the success of the inaugural Downtown Cocoa Crawl, an event that brought together the community and local businesses in a festive celebration. Victoria Goode from the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce provided an enthusiastic recap of the event, which featured numerous activities, including games, visits from Santa, and, notably, hot chocolate served from a commode—a quirky touch that became a talking point among attendees.

The Cocoa Crawl, which took place in early December, exceeded expectations with an estimated 2,500 participants. Goode expressed gratitude for the support from local businesses and sponsors, particularly Xfinity, which played a significant role in organizing the event. Their involvement included providing fun activities and promoting the event through social media, which helped attract a larger crowd.

Council members praised the collaboration between the EDC and the Chamber, emphasizing the importance of working together to create engaging community events. The Cocoa Crawl not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community spirit, with families enjoying the festive atmosphere. Goode noted that the event was reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, highlighting its charm and appeal.

Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for next year's Cocoa Crawl, with organizers eager to build on this year's success. The council members expressed optimism that increased participation from local businesses and residents would make the event even more impactful in the future.

In conclusion, the Cocoa Crawl has proven to be a valuable addition to Cleveland's community events, showcasing the potential for local partnerships to enhance the quality of life for residents. The EDC and Chamber's collaborative efforts are set to continue, aiming to create more opportunities for community engagement and support for local businesses.