♪
[Ticking]
[Alarm ringing]
[Groaning]
[Sighing]
[Phone vibrating]
[Sighing]
Mayor foster speaking.
Yes, Mrs. Markowitz, I
completely understand,
but the snow plow driver
cannot do individual driveways.
Well, I know there
are private companies
that do this kind of thing.
I'll tell you what, I will
personally make sure
that our office gets back to
you with some numbers, okay?
Great.
We'll be in touch soon.
Okay. Have a good day now.
[Sniffing]
Not again.
Ooh!
[Smoke detector beeping]
[Phone vibrating]
Ah... um...
Just a minute!
Mayor foster speaking.
Hello there, Mr. Taylor.
What can I help you with?
Uh, I know the
detour is such a pain,
but it's only temporary.
It will be done soon.
You know what? I can't give
an exact timeline at the moment,
but I will check
with the contractor
and get back to you.
[Chuckling]
Merry Christmas to you, too.
[Door closing]
I can't force the grocery
store to change their flooring.
I will make sure they
put out their mats, though.
You're welcome. Okay.
[Car horns honking]
Okay. Bye now.
[Car horns honking]
Man: Come on!
[Car horns continue honking]
Hi. Hi, there.
Good morning, everyone.
Uh, please follow the
detour sign back that way.
[Horns honking]
Yeah. Oh, I got it!
- Woman: What's happening?
- Man: Come on.
Here we go.
Alright, there we go. Yes.
Turn around and
back that way, please.
Yeah, you'll have to
turn around. Thank you.
Right back that way.
Hi. Morning.
Morning, mayor.
You directing traffic now, too?
[Laughing]
When duty calls, I guess.
Any idea when these
repairs will be finished?
Not sure if you've
noticed, but this detour
is leading people
right out of downtown.
[Cars honking]
I know it's an inconvenience,
but the contractor
says it'll be done soon.
What's his definition of soon?
Two weeks? Two
months? Two years?
Some of us might not
be in business by then.
Is it really that bad?
I don't want to
speak for everyone,
but it's definitely not good.
Let me follow up
with them again.
Well, that'd be
appreciated. Thank you. I...
Sorry, I'm late already.
I'll see you around.
Bye, frank.
♪
[Shop bell jingling]
Mayor foster: Morning.
Hey, honey! You
forget your coffee today?
I sure did, Jo.
Honey, you are working too hard.
No such thing.
Large black coffee coming up.
Thanks. Oh, and a coconut
milk latté for Gina, please.
I thought assistants
were supposed to
get their bosses coffee,
not the other way around.
Ah, but then I wouldn't
get to see you every day.
You know, I actually
just ran into frank.
He said business has
been pretty slow with
all the construction
on the bridge.
- He said that?
- Yeah.
He also said he's
not the only one.
Is everything okay?
We'll survive.
Jo, please.
You can be honest with me.
I just want to help.
Is it bad?
Oh, no.
It's alright, honey.
No, it's not.
Leave this with me, okay?
Okay.
I'll be in touch!
[Shop bell jingling]
♪
[Dog panting]
Oh, hi.
Oh, you're sweet,
aren't you, huh?
[Chuckling]
What are we gonna do, huh? Yeah.
[Man whistling] Ruby.
Looks like you've been summoned.
[Barking softly]
Gina: Mm-hm.
Yep, uh-huh.
They come every
single time it snows.
I know, it's great.
[Whispering] Thank you.
Okay, yes. I will let her know.
Okay. Buh-bye now.
- Mrs. Markowitz?
- Yep. She's good to go.
Oh, and the snow plow
guy sounded super cute,
so don't be mad.
Gina, you gotta stop doing that.
Besides, I don't have time.
We need to focus on the town.
What do you mean?
Main street is a ghost town
thanks to those bridge repairs.
It's really bad. Worse
than we thought.
How's that possible?
I made those revenue
loss projections myself...
I know, but we didn't
account for this many delays,
especially this time of year.
Hm. Well, what can we do?
Call the contractor and
lay the hammer down.
Can you get me his number?
Yeah.
There's just one thing.
What?
He's on vacation...
In Jamaica until the new year.
You've gotta be kidding me.
Well, then we find another
contractor to finish the job.
Yeah, but that's
breach of contract.
Plus, it's the middle of winter.
Most construction's
already shut down. I...
Well, we can't just do nothing.
I have to fix this.
Okay, but...
Nope! No buts. It's happening.
How?
I don't know yet.
But I'm going to figure it out.
Okay.
♪
[Knocking]
It's open.
Hi there, sweetie.
Hey, dad.
[Chuckling]
Mm. Something smells good.
I made your favorite
spaghetti sauce.
I just gotta throw
on some noodles.
You didn't have to go
to all this trouble, hm?
We could have just
ordered take out.
Dad, when is the last time
you had a home cooked meal?
When was the last
time I was here?
My point exactly.
Plus I know that you have
that burger joint on speed dial.
What? They're good.
Anyway, enough about me.
What's... what's with the tree?
Oh. Yeah, I know.
I'll get to it eventually.
Everything okay?
Ah, nothing for
you to worry about.
You sure? Hm? Need my help?
Nope.
I invited my dad
over, not the ex-mayor.
Why can't I be both tonight?
Why don't you sit down
and put your feet up?
Why don't I just
set the table, hm?
Meanwhile, I need you
to look through that box.
I'm finally finishing
the basement.
I need to get rid of some stuff.
You have no idea how many
boxes of Christmas decor
your mother had down there.
You know, I have
plenty of stuff already.
Yeah, I know, but those
pieces were special to her,
and I thought you
might wanna keep them.
Hollybush Christmas market.
You used to love
building that village.
You'd come home from
school and stare at it for hours.
♪
[Chuckling]
You know, I used to think it
was you dragging your mother
around to that market,
but I'm not so sure.
She spent a fortune down there.
Oh, wow.
Of course.
What?
Spend a fortune. That's it!
A Christmas market!
A what?
You are a genius, dad.
Thank you.
[Sighing]
♪
Both: Hi!
Thanks for coming in so early.
Of course. What's happening?
I figured it out.
Okay. Awesome. Figured out what?
How to fix this
construction mess.
Hm?
The first annual Hawkins
bay Christmas market.
It's perfect!
We'll find an accessible spot,
give a booth to every
shop on main street.
We'll bring in a Santa,
and a Christmas tree.
We'll have mulled
cider and hot cocoa
and every kind of Christmas
cookie you can think of.
Hm.
If we can't bring
people to main street,
then we will bring main
street to the people.
Wow. I love it.
I know, right?
But Christmas is in a week.
Do you think we really
have time to pull this off?
We find the time, Gina.
Okay, so first thing's first.
We find a location.
Somewhere off the
downtown strip but still close.
And parking. Endless parking.
Seems easy enough.
No...
What about here?
That's the arena, remember?
That is a no go.
Minor hockey would revolt.
Not to mention
the figure skaters.
Never mess with
the figure skaters.
Wait a minute.
What about the old textile mill?
Big spot, parking lot,
overlooking the river,
very christmassy.
Kinda perfect.
Yeah, but that's
the old Hawkins mill.
- So?
- They'll never let you do that.
You don't know about that.
When was the last time
someone from your family
spoke to a Hawkins? 1989?
That's probably accurate.
But it's been
vacant for 30 years,
and I heard they
live in Florida now.
It's probably fine.
The parents live in
Florida, but the son still lives
in that big old
house on the hill.
- Really?
- Yep.
Darcy Hawkins.
Notorious recluse?
Oh, come on, he
can't be that bad.
I'm just saying I think
it would be a good idea
to have some other options.
What other options?
Exactly.
This is the spot.
Just leave it to me.
Okay.
[Knocking]
[Banging]
[Banging]
[Banging]
[Banging continues]
- Hello!
- [Shouting]
Oh!
Oh, I am so sorry.
Are you okay?
Yeah. I'm fine.
Oh, god.
Oh! It's you.
I saw you on the
street yesterday.
[Snorting]
I didn't mean to surprise you.
It's fine. We just don't
get many visitors up here.
What can I do for you?
Oh... um... I'm Alex foster.
Mayor Alex foster.
Right. Sorry. Not really keeping
up on local politics these days.
So, you might have noticed
some of the construction issues
- on the bridge.
- Hard to miss.
Right. Well, had to be done.
Upgrading infrastructure in
this town was long overdue.
I agree. I've been
saying that for years.
Great. Yeah.
Well, so, unfortunately, it
has led to some unforeseen
consequences for some
of the local businesses,
which brings me to
the reason I came.
I was wondering if you
would be interested in
leasing the old mill?
Just for this week
before Christmas.
We're throwing an old
fashioned Christmas market
and we think the mill would
be the ideal spot to host it.
Kinda late notice for a
Christmas market, isn't it?
[Sighing] Look.
The truth is, tourism has
completely bottomed out,
and I have to find a way
to boost sales for the folks
on main street or
they might not make it
through the holiday season,
and the Christmas market
is the perfect solution.
And not just that, you know,
it would also be a great way to
bring the entire town together.
You know, Christmas
spirit and all that?
I don't know.
I'd prefer not to get involved.
[Barking]
You wouldn't have
to be involved.
We've got lots of help
so you wouldn't have to
lift a finger if
you don't want to.
I'm sure there's a
better place for it.
Well, that's the thing...
There just really aren't
that many options.
You know what?
I'd really love to help,
but I just got so much
going on, and, uh, good luck.
[Whistling]
[Barking]
[Barking]
Well, don't give me that look.
[Knocking]
Mayor foster: Hey!
[Sighing]
I heard what you said,
and I would just really
appreciate it if you
take a look at this.
It breaks everything
down and I think that once
you've had a chance to
read it, you'll see the benefits
to the town may
outweigh your reservations.
So, my number's on the
front if you have any questions,
and I really look forward to
picking up this conversation
once you've had
time to review it.
So, thanks so
much for your time.
[Barking]
[Laughing] What's all this?
Finally spreading some
Christmas cheer around here.
How'd it go?
He said no. Please
don't say I told you so.
I would never.
Although, I think I
bought us some time.
I gave him the pitch document,
so now I have an excuse
to go back tomorrow
and follow up.
Hm, and what makes you think
he's going to change his mind?
I don't know.
Everybody wants something.
We just have to
figure out what it is.
[Shop bell jingling]
Hey!
Oh, good, you're here.
I ordered us a gallon of coffee.
Thank you.
Any luck digging around?
No.
So far all I've heard from
people is that he is quiet
and has a cute dog.
I mean, there is no
social media on this guy.
Nothing! Zero.
What about you?
- There's not much.
- Hm.
But I did find out
that he went to
boarding school in Europe.
Is boarding
school still a thing?
Apparently with his family, yes.
- Hm.
- After that, Ivy league college
for civil engineering,
graduated top of his class.
Okay, that's something.
Where's he working now?
I don't know.
I mean, the only other stuff
that I could find with his name
are articles about his dad.
Uh, and apparently yours, too.
Mm-hm.
"Henry Hawkins accuses
mayor art foster of defamation."
Defamation? What's that about?
Well, I was pretty young,
but from what I remember,
dad told some reporters that
he thought Hawkins
closing down the mill was
the worst thing to
happen to the town
and let's just say that
Hawkins did not take kindly
to the bad press.
Do you think that Hawkins
junior is still upset about all this?
Well, hello ladies.
Hi, Brent.
And how are we this morning?
Good.
Busy.
Right, of course. Always busy.
Can we help you with something?
No, just picking up some
donuts for the committee meeting.
Gotta support local,
especially right now.
It's been pretty quiet
around here lately.
Anyway, I should get
going. Have a good day.
You too.
Gina: Bye.
Hm.
It's a shame the two
of you didn't work out.
We only went on a few times.
Sure, but the mayor
and the city planner?
Hm? Could've made headlines.
Anyways.
So, we've got a
decades-long family feud
and absolutely no leverage.
What are we gonna
do about this guy?
We go back to the basics.
Okay.
What... what does that mean?
Jo, I'm going to need a
dozen of your best treats.
- You got it.
- Baked goods? Really?
It's a start.
Oh, and do you
have any more flyers
for the choir event
tomorrow night?
Over there, honey.
Okay, I'm loving
the confidence, I am,
but, just in case, I'm going
to get started on plan b.
We are not gonna need one.
No one can resist Jo's baking.
[Chuckling]
Hi.
What are you doing here?
Just admiring your...
Super nice chairs. Wow.
Did you make these yourself?
Yeah, and they're a gift, so.
Oh. Sorry.
Wrap those back up.
Anyway, uh...
I brought you these.
I didn't make them, so I
you promise they're good.
I wanted to apologize
for yesterday.
I took you by surprise
and I put a lot of pressure
on you and I'm sorry.
Thanks. I appreciate that.
And I'd like to make
it up to you somehow.
You know what? I'm good.
But, uh, thanks for these.
I really have a
lot to do today, so.
Is this about our dads?
What?
Because I know that your family
is not exactly a fan of mine,
and maybe there's some
residual stuff to work through.
Yeah, I don't think so.
'Cause I just think that
this market could be
the perfect way to
put the past behind us.
Just think about it.
The fosters and the Hawkins
working together
to help the town?
You know, we
could right the ship,
weave a new narrative.
Yeah, I'm not really
interested in weaving
any kind of narrative.
Oh... just tell me
what I can do...
Woman: Darcy?!
Gran?
You okay?
Oh, everything's fine.
I just can't find
my playing cards.
I was going to cue up a
game of solitaire, but i...
Oh.
Hi.
Hello.
[Whispering] I didn't know
we had company coming.
We're not actually.
I'm Mary Hawkins.
It's a pleasure to meet you.
Nice to meet you.
I'm Alex foster.
Foster?
As in art foster's daughter?
That's me.
She's the mayor now, too.
[Laughing]
Well, I must be a lot
older than I thought.
[Both laughing]
Mayor foster.
Please, come in, and
sit in front of the fire,
and play cards with us?
Darcy'll make us some tea.
You know, mayor foster's
a very busy woman.
I'm sure she has
better places to be.
Actually, I'd love to stay.
Thank you, and call me Alex.
Oh, wonderful, Alex.
We so rarely have
company. This is thrilling.
Go and get out the
best China, Darcy,
and put on some Christmas music.
I love Christmas music.
[Both chuckling]
Do you like Christmas music?
- Alex: Oh, who doesn't?
- Yes, well, come with me.
So, do you play gin?
Uh, yeah.
♪ Oh, Christmas tree
oh, Christmas tree ♪
♪ thy leaves are so unchanging
♪ oh, Christmas tree
oh, Christmas tree ♪
♪ thy leaves are so unchanging
♪ not only green
when summer's here ♪
Gin.
- Again?
- [Chuckling]
Wow. You're good.
When was the last
time you played?
Not since I was a kid
and clearly it shows.
Don't let him make you feel bad.
I b*at him most days.
I let her b*at me.
He's lying.
You can always
tell with this one.
He puts on his gruff exterior,
but really he's
just an old softy.
And did I tell you he
built me these beautiful
new chairs for my porch?
What? How'd you know about that?
Well, I saw you wrapping
them up out there in a big tarp.
Not exactly subtle.
Oh, and next on the docket
is my new apartment
on the river.
No, that's not
happening anymore.
No, it's not happening
yet. There's a difference.
What apartment?
It's nothing.
Anyway, can I get
us some more tea?
No, I'm good, thank you.
No. I have plenty, thanks.
Okay, well...
- Mrs. Hawkins.
- Mm-hm?
I'm not sure what you're
up to tomorrow night,
but the local choir is
performing at the chapel.
There will be snacks and drinks
and we're donating all the
proceeds to the mission.
Oh, how wonderful.
It's usually a lot of fun.
I thought you might
like to join us this year.
What do you say, Darcy?
Well, um...
We don't have anything
planned as far as I know.
♪ Thy candles
shine so brightly ♪
Whatever you want.
[Laughing] We'd be
delighted to attend.
Thank you for the invitation.
You're welcome.
Well, I should
probably get going,
but thank you for
the tea and the cards,
even though my ego
may never fully recover.
Any time, my dear. Bye now.
- Bye.
- Bye-bye.
Well, I guess I will
see you tomorrow.
I'm looking forward to it.
♪
Good morning.
Hi, I got your message
and pulled all the building
permits made in
the last ten years.
Thanks so much. Great work.
So, tell me, what are
we looking for exactly?
Well, it turns out Darcy
is not the only one
who lives at the Hawkins estate.
He's been looking after
his grandmother, too.
Okay. That's kind of cute.
She kept mentioning some
apartment that he tried to
build for her,
but it fell through.
Okay.
So, it got me thinking.
Maybe at some point
he applied for a
building permit.
Hm. So, are we thinking
vacant land or a tear down?
I'm not sure yet.
Well, let's find out, shall we?
[Sighing]
I swear I've got paper
cuts on all ten of my fingers.
How is that even possible?
I think I even chipped a nail.
Ah-ha!
Both: The mill.
Of course.
Looks like he wanted to turn
the top floor into apartments.
And some commercial real estate.
Some shops and restaurants.
Honestly, not a bad idea.
And some accessibility
ramps and elevators.
- For gran.
- Aww.
Alex, look.
[Sighing]
Dad.
Hey, dad.
Hey, there she is!
Thanks for coming
on such short notice.
My pleasure.
So, how's the Christmas
market thing coming along?
Well, we've actually hit
a little bump in the road.
Oh?
I found the ideal
spot to host it.
Good.
Though I just have to convince
the owner to lease it to me.
Well, you talked to
them about it, didn't you?
I mean, you
explained the situation?
Oh, yeah, but
he's been resisting.
So, I figured why not try
an old fashioned trade.
Uh-huh. That's my girl.
And as luck would have
it, I found the perfect thing
to offer him in return, but...
It might disappoint some people.
Are you asking my advice?
- I am.
- [Laughing]
Well, in my experience,
you can't please everyone,
but you have to think about
the long term well-being
of the town and make
decisions that are
going to benefit as
many people as possible,
but no matter what you do,
someone's always
going to be disappointed.
And what if that
someone was you?
What do you mean?
I want to host the Christmas
market at the Hawkins mill.
What?!
And to do it, I'm going to
get this permit approved.
Refurbishing the mill looks like
a really sound investment to me.
More real estate
close to main street,
more shops and restaurants, too.
It looks like the kind of long
term economic boost we need.
But I know you disagree.
For good reason.
You don't know that family.
His father nearly sunk this
town when he closed the mill,
and he didn't give any
of his employees notice.
He just left, leaving hundreds
of families without income,
and then he got mad at
me for being honest about it.
I know, dad.
But that was
almost 30 years ago,
and Darcy is not his father.
Oh. Darcy, is it? Huh?
First name basis already?
We've had some
preliminary discussions, yes.
Look, Alex, I would never...
I'll never tell you what to do,
but it feels like you're letting
the fox back into the henhouse.
I disagree.
Well, hey, you're the mayor,
and you got to make, you know,
whatever decision
you feel is right, so...
Look, uh, I got some
things I gotta do.
So, we'll talk later, alright?
Dad.
♪
Hi, Brent.
Hey. You look nice.
Oh. Thanks.
Actually, I'm glad you're here.
You are?
Yes. I would love
to set up a meeting
with the planning
committee about this.
Oh.
All the assessments have
been done on the property
and everything looks in order.
This is for the Hawkins' mill.
Yes, it is.
But it's actually a
really great plan.
You know, we've been
talking forever about
expanding the downtown core,
and this could be our chance.
I'll need some time
to look this over.
Absolutely, but at first glance,
nothing jumps out at you, right?
Well, I've seen a lot of mills
like this be refurbished before.
So, it should be doable.
Okay. Great. Thanks.
So, I guess I'll
see you in there.
Yeah. Sure.
♪
Jo: Hey, honey.
Hey, Jo.
It looks amazing in here.
Thank you.
You waiting on someone?
I am, actually.
Oh.
Is that...
Yep.
Mary and Darcy Hawkins.
Wow.
How'd you manage that?
Hi! I'm so glad you came.
Wouldn't miss it.
Look at this place.
I'd forgotten how
beautiful it is here.
I'll grab us some seats.
Don't worry. I actually
saved us some up front.
Front row, to the right.
Oh, well, thank you, dear.
Thanks for coming.
I wasn't sure you'd
actually show up.
Gran's pretty persuasive.
I can believe it.
So, do you recognize
anyone here?
Not many by name.
Okay. Well, that is Jo.
Owner of the one and
only Hawkins bay café.
Ah, yes. The maker of
the treats you brought us.
Exactly. She's about as pure
and kind as a person gets.
Heart and soul of main street.
Hi. Thank you so
much for coming!
So, those were the reids.
They own the gift shop right
next to frank's antique store.
Good evening, everyone,
and thank you for coming.
I hope you're all
having a good time.
[Applauding]
We have such a special
treat for you tonight.
It's my pleasure to introduce
you to the Hawkins bay choir!
[Applauding]
[Vocalizing "auld lang syne"]
[Choir vocalizing continuing]
[Choir continuing]
She loves it.
[Choir continuing]
[Choir continuing]
Thanks again for coming tonight.
I hope you had a good time.
I did.
And I haven't seen gran
that happy in a long time.
So... thank you.
See? We're not so bad
if you give us a chance.
Yeah, I just wasn't
sure how it would go.
It was a long time ago.
Listen, um...
After your gran mentioned
the apartments the other day,
I did some research,
and I discovered your plans
to refurbish the mill.
Oh.
Now, I know my dad
turned them down,
but I actually think
it's a really great idea
and I would love to
help you make it happen.
- Really?
- Mm-hm! Yeah.
I think it's in the
town's best interest,
and your gran's, too.
And I would tell you that
regardless of the market,
but then I would be
completely undercutting
my bargaining power.
[Both chuckling]
Fair enough.
I like a good trade.
So, what do you
say, Mr. Hawkins?
Should we make a deal?
We'll approve your permit
and you host the
Christmas market?
You got yourself a deal.
Good.
Great.
[Both laughing]
Thank you.
Oh, gosh, I should call Gina,
because there's so much to do!
Um...
Should I meet you
at the mill tomorrow
and we'll go over our plans?
- Sure.
- Okay, I'll see you soon.
Okay.
Hi, Gina. Good news.
The Christmas market is a go!
♪ We wish you a
merry Christmas ♪
♪ we wish you a
merry Christmas ♪
I'm sorry, frank.
It's the end of an era.
Oh, don't say that.
Are you sure there
aren't any other options?
Hey, guys.
Frank, you okay?
He had to shut down
his shop this morning.
What? No.
I just can't afford to
keep digging this hole
through the holidays.
Figured it's best to close up
now before things get worse.
Give myself a chance to
figure out the next steps.
Did you give up
your lease already?
Not yet. Why?
Because I may have
a way to help you.
I wasn't able to
speed up construction,
but when I told you I
had your backs, I meant it.
So...
Welcome to the first annual
Hawkins bay Christmas market!
This Friday, Saturday,
and Sunday night
at the old Hawkins mill.
We've got booths
for each of you,
we've got mulled cider and
hot cocoa and treats galore.
We've got Santa and a
tree and presents for the kids.
It sounds perfect, Alex. Really.
What do you think, frank?
Are you sure you can get
enough people to attend?
It's kinda late notice.
I personally guarantee
that you will have more
business in one night at the market
than you would have at your
shop from now until Christmas.
Guarantee?
You haven't seen
Gina work the phones.
Mm-mm.
She will have everyone
and their grandmother there.
Jo: It could help to
get you to the new year,
and then you could reassess.
Yeah. It could.
So, does that mean you'll do it?
Count me in.
[Both laughing]
Me, too. [Laughing]
Okay, we've got work to do!
- Yes.
- We gotta go.
We do. Okay. We'll be in touch.
Jo: Thanks, girls. [Laughing]
♪
Darcy: Hey.
Good morning.
I haven't been here in so long.
I'd forgotten how nice it is.
It needs a little tlc, but it
should get the job done.
- You want a tour?
- Sure do.
This way.
I thought this might
be the best spot.
It's got the high ceilings,
and room for a lot of people.
It's beautiful.
You think it'll work?
Definitely. Mm-hm.
We could spread the booths
out around the perimeter
and have a big tree
right here in the middle.
And we could put
Santa right over there.
Sure. Yeah. Sounds good.
Oh, and then we'll need to
round up some booths somehow.
I could help out with that.
Really?
Yeah. I got a bunch
of lumber at the house.
I could put some together.
That would amazing. Thank you.
You're welcome.
They teach you how
to build stuff like that
at boarding school?
No, I... taught myself.
How do you know I
went to boarding school?
Mm. I may have looked you up.
You're kind of an enigma,
so I had to resort
to the Internet.
Yeah. [Chuckling]
Find anything interesting?
Just boarding
school and college,
neither of which quite
seem to match up with you.
Yeah, I, um...
Let's just say I didn't
really fit in with the crowd.
Kind of kept to myself.
Now, that last part
sounds about right.
Both: Yeah.
You wanna see where
gran's apartment's going to be?
Absolutely.
Alright, it's this way.
So, all the apartments are
gonna have their own balconies,
but I really want
this one to be gran's.
It's got the best
view of the river.
Oh.
It's perfect.
Yeah, the house is just so
big and it has so many stairs.
I worry about her
being on her own
when I'm not there, you know?
That's understandable.
She's really lucky to have you.
Were you two always this close?
Yeah.
Well, she practically raised me.
My mom and my dad were
always busy working or traveling,
but most of the time it
was just the two of us.
She's done so much for me.
I just really want her to have
something she loves, you know?
Anyway, what about you?
What was it like growing up
the daughter of the mayor?
It was...
all I knew. [Chuckling]
When I was young, I spent
a lot of time with my mom.
My dad was always working.
But then after she passed,
my dad just kinda dragged
me along everywhere.
Is that why you ran for office?
You want to follow
in his footsteps?
Not really.
I just had some
strong opinions about
how to do things my own way.
Huh. Yeah. I noticed.
[Laughing]
Well, I think this
is gonna be great.
In fact, I might just have
to move in right next door
when it's all said and done.
Well, gran would love that.
I might have to get
better at gin, though.
That's true.
I mean, that's if the
permit gets approved.
Oh, don't worry.
It will.
♪
That's correct. Opens
this Friday night.
Okay, great. See you there. Hi.
Morning! How far down
the list did you get?
Um, I got to the
letter g in my phone,
but before we get into that,
wow, look at you,
you like it?
I love it. What's the occasion?
Nothing. I just
needed a little boost
to keep the engines
going, you know?
Okay.
Oh, and Darcy Hawkins is
coming by to sign the paperwork.
[Gasping]
You like him!
Don't be ridiculous.
Are you going out with him?
Gina, please.
We are business partners.
Mm-hm.
- Sort of.
- Mm-hm.
- Temporarily.
- Okay.
Where's the permit paperwork?
Oh. It is right here.
Good, because he is
going to be here any minute.
Mm-hm. With
chocolates and flowers.
Gina, for the love of...
[clearing throat]
Hello.
Hi.
Oh, yeah. The paperwork.
- Right. Yes.
- Mm-hm.
Thanks.
You can, uh, just sign
where the stickies are
and that should do it.
Sounds good.
Do you have a pen?
Oh, yes. Mm-hm.
- Here you go.
- Thanks.
You can... you can just leave it
on my desk when you're done.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Hey, uh, what are
you doing right now?
Now?
Oh. Um, I think I
have a meeting.
It's been cancelled.
- What?
- Yeah, they just called.
They pushed it to
next week, yeah.
Well in that case,
there's something I
could use your help with.
It's for the market.
Oh, um... I don't know.
The rest of my
day is pretty busy.
I've gotta talk to some of the
vendors, then line up a Santa.
All taken care of.
In fact, you are
free for the day.
[Laughing] Well
then. I guess I'm free.
Perfect.
[Laughing]
[Clanging]
What are you doing in there?
Darcy: You'll see.
[Clanging]
We're going to get
a Christmas tree.
Oh.
You said you wanted
one for the market.
I was just thinking
about getting a fake one.
Ah, you can't do
that. It's not the same.
[Laughing]
You know, we really don't
have to go through all this trouble.
Where's the fun in that?
Come on.
It's a Hawkins tradition.
Better than a board
meeting, though, right?
Absolutely
so, you and gran go
out like this every year?
Oh yeah.
You should see gran with a saw.
[Laughing]
So, what's the toboggan for?
Well we have to drag
the tree back somehow.
Oh, and the best trees
are at the bottom of the hill.
Are you serious?
Well, if gran can
do it, you can.
[Laughing]
Sure, there's a few shrubs
to avoid, couple icy patches,
but it'll be fine.
Right.
Oh, uh, ladies first.
Okay.
You know what?
Actually, let me just...
[shouting, laughing]
Woo!
[Shouting, laughing]
Yes!
You liar!
[Laughing] Come on.
It's my turn.
Wasn't so bad, right?
Alright, alright. Let me
show you how it's done.
Oh, okay.
Yeah. Alright.
[Laughing]
Yeah! Woo!
Show off!
That's how it's done!
[Laughing]
[Both laughing]
[Both shouting]
♪
[Both laughing]
♪
- All right, ready?
- Yeah.
Uh, back that way
a little bit more?
- This way? Okay.
- Mm-hm.
Nope. Too far. Back that way.
Uh, back the other way.
Yeah, yeah.
- How's that?
- Yeah. Almost there.
Maybe back that
way a little bit.
Towards you.
- [Laughing]
- That's good.
Ah, wow.
That is a tree.
Yeah.
You know what would
make it look even better?
- What?
- Decorations.
Mm.
Where did all this
come from anyway?
I told Gina to put in an order
for some Christmas decorations,
but this is next level.
It's great.
We can start with these.
♪
So, what do you and your
family do at christmastime?
You guys have any traditions?
Oh, yeah. All the classics.
Hot chocolate, movies.
Cookies for Santa.
Of course.
My mom was very into Christmas.
That's actually how I came
up with this whole market idea.
Really?
Yeah, yeah. We used to go to
one every year outside of town.
We'd buy all sorts of
things from all the shops.
[Laughing]
I would make her take me on
the sleigh ride over and over.
- Sleigh ride, huh?
- Oh, yeah. Yeah.
Some kids love
rollercoasters, not me.
I was all about that
horse and buggy.
Mm-hm. [Laughing]
The cold night air.
The bright Christmas lights.
Even the sound of
the horses breathing.
I just...
I loved it all.
Should we plug these in?
Yeah. Let's do it.
Alright.
- Give me a count.
- Okay.
Three, two, one.
[Sighing]
Hey, not bad.
Mm-hm.
You want to see something else?
Sure.
♪
Alex: What?!
[Darcy laughing]
These were installed
so long ago I wasn't even
sure if they would work.
You know, I was kinda
joking about moving in
next to gran, but now?
With this out my
window every day?
Count me in.
Listen, I was thinking...
What if you came over
for dinner tomorrow night?
I could cook, you can relax,
and gran can b*at
us at cards again.
I'd love to.
Seven o'clock?
Okay then.
♪
Morning.
So, tell me everything.
There is nothing to tell.
I do not believe
that for one second.
Well, I might be going
over there for dinner.
Now we're talkin'.
Don't get ahead of yourself.
His gran will be there, too,
so it is not like a real date.
Yeah, but he's
cooking for you, right?
I guess so.
I love this so much.
[Knocking]
- Hi.
- Hi.
Come in.
Oh, man, it smells
amazing in here.
I'll take your coat.
Yeah, I, uh, I
made duck l'orange.
You know how to make duck?
Gran likes to try new things.
[Chuckling]
Alex? Is that you?
Hi!
[Gasping]
Well, aren't you a sight
for sore eyes, my goodness.
Thank you. You
look beautiful, too.
Oh. Well, come in.
I have some hot
cider on the stove.
- Would you like a cup?
- I would love one.
Come on.
♪
Darcy: He said,
"go," I went, "okay."
[All laughing]
Darcy, that was incredible.
Seriously next level.
He's come a long way
since the burnt pancakes
he used to make for me.
[Laughing]
♪
Uh, can I get you coffee?
Tea? Hot chocolate?
Oh. I would love
some. Thank you.
- Gran?
- I'm good.
I'm going to head
upstairs for the night.
Already? No cards?
No, no. You two should play.
Lord knows you
need the practice.
[Laughing]
- Night, night.
- 'Night.
Goodnight.
Oh. I got it.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
Just make yourself at
home in the living room.
♪
Here you go.
Oh, wow! A candy
cane and everything?
This is the executive treatment.
Well, you have the
mayor over for dinner,
you gotta pull
out all the stops.
[Laughing]
Well, I'm honored.
Mm.
Well?
I think you outdid yourself.
If I do say so myself.
[Sighing]
It's so nice here.
I'm glad you like it.
Yeah, it's been a long
time since I let myself
enjoy all of this.
It's understandable.
It must be hard
without your mom.
I always thought that I
would find new traditions to do
with my own family one day.
But since that
hasn't happened yet,
I kind of feel like
I'm in this limbo.
Anyway.
I think it's great that
you do all this with gran.
I'm sure she
appreciates it so much.
Yeah, she does.
But it is nice having a
new face around here.
♪
What?
I kinda think we should dance.
[Laughing] Are you kidding.
Nope.
Do you even know how?
I went to boarding school.
It's part of the curriculum.
Okay. [Laughing]
So, what? Are we going
to fox trot or something?
I think we'll keep
it a little simpler.
If you try to dip me, I swear...
No promises.
♪ And I say
sha-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪
♪ I feel good, I feel good
[laughing]
♪ And I say
sha-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪
♪ I feel good, I feel good
♪ no one's going to
take this from me ♪
♪ I'm feeling as
good as can be ♪
♪ with you, babe, with you
♪ yeah, my soul is free
♪ and I say
sha-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪
♪ I feel good, I feel good
♪ and I say
sha-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪
♪ I feel good, I feel good
♪ we've come so far now
♪ and I'm ready for sure
♪ so bring on tomorrow
♪ I need more, more, more...
Well, um, it's getting late.
I should probably get going.
Yeah, okay.
And for the market tomorrow,
I've got the vendors
coming at 10:00, is that okay?
Sure. Whatever you need.
Okay.
Well, thank you for dinner,
and for everything.
You're welcome.
I'll let myself out.
Okay.
♪
[Sighing]
♪
♪
I'm so excited to
show you this space.
Okay! So, Santa is
going to go right here,
and he'll be sitting in
one of frank's chairs.
- So cute, right?
- Yeah.
And then we got this tree,
hand cut by yours truly.
It's kinda patchy
but mostly perfect.
Perfect indeed.
Oh, and look at these.
Darcy made those all by
himself, can you believe that?
I think I can, yeah.
Darcy: Come on in, guys.
Oh, my goodness.
Oh, wow.
Do you like it?
Alex, look at this!
What a gorgeous spot.
Where do I set up?
Oh. Over here.
And frank, you
can take this one.
There's lots of space back there
for some of your
bigger furniture items.
That would be great. Thank you.
You're welcome.
And you guys can spread out.
Take whichever one you like.
Am I late?
Dad?
You didn't have to come.
Of course I did.
Mrs. Hawkins.
Been a long time.
Nice to see you again.
Likewise, Mr. Foster.
And you must be Darcy.
Nice to meet you.
- Nice to meet you, sir.
- Oh, please.
Call me art.
"Sir" makes me feel old.
[Chuckling]
Alright, folks. Let's get
this party started, shall we?
Alright.
Where to first?
Alright, I'm going to
be making garlands.
♪ Yeah, yeah
♪ now, it's that time of year
♪ when magic's in the air
♪ there's so many
smiling faces ♪
♪ and love is everywhere
♪ you can hear those carousels
♪ from outside your front door
♪ that's when you know
it's almost Christmas ♪
♪ chestnuts roasting,
champagne toasting ♪
♪ frosty in the snow
♪ children wishing,
lovers kissing ♪
♪ under mistletoe
♪ it's almost Christmas
♪ it's almost Christmas
hey, thanks for your help.
Any time.
Come on!
[Laughing]
Okay everyone, we've already
got some early customers outside.
It's almost go time!
Okay, so you should
probably make a little speech.
You think?
Absolutely, but make it brief.
Okay. [Chuckling]
Hi, everyone.
Thank you so much for coming.
I know it's been a bit of
a bumpy road to get here,
so thank you for
keeping the faith.
The place looks incredible.
I'm so happy to be here
supporting all of you.
You all work so hard, and
you're such a big part of
what makes Hawkins
bay so special.
I know there's a
lot at stake tonight,
but don't forget
to take a moment
to enjoy the evening,
because you all deserve it.
And lastly, I would like to
thank the Hawkins family
for their generosity
in hosting us.
We are so grateful.
Now, without further ado,
let's kick off the first annual
Hawkins bay Christmas market!
[Cheering, applauding]
Gina: Hi, come on in!
Hi, merry Christmas. Welcome.
♪
♪
So, I thought I'd add a
little extra oomph for tonight.
What do you think?
Wow.
You like it?
I love it.
Good. That was the goal.
I think it's going
well in there.
Yeah.
I'm so relieved.
You did a great job.
I couldn't have done
it without you, though.
I find it very hard
to say no to you.
Lucky me.
♪
Gina: Alex.
Oh sorry, I didn't
mean to interrupt,
but I need to talk to you.
What is it?
I just got off the phone
with Brent's office.
The planning committee
held a vote tonight.
What?
Yeah.
What happened?
They denied Darcy's
building permit.
What?
But we had a meeting
scheduled for the new year.
I know, but I guess they just
decided to go ahead anyway.
I'm sorry.
Thanks for letting me know.
Good luck.
Everything okay?
Actually...
There's an issue
with your permit.
The planning committee
decided to hold a vote and, um...
they opted not to approve it.
What?
I'm so sorry.
I had no idea they were
planning to do it tonight.
They... they rushed the
decision for some reason.
Yeah.
Because they never planned
to approve it in the first place.
No. No. No, that's not true.
They're reasonable people.
Let me talk to them.
I'll file an appeal, we'll
get this sorted out...
You said the vote
was only a formality.
I thought it was.
But you weren't sure?
I told gran about
the apartments...
She's picking out paint colors.
I am so sorry.
Yeah.
At least you and the
town got what you wanted.
No. Darcy, wait.
We will figure
this out, I promise.
You have my word.
People's word doesn't seem
to mean a lot in this town.
Darcy, please.
[Alarm ringing]
Gina: Great, I'm so
happy to hear that.
I will definitely let her know.
Okay. Thanks. Bye.
So, we got some preliminary
numbers in from last night.
Sales were off the charts.
Really?
Mm-hm, and we have
two more nights to go.
- That's great.
- Yep.
Frank even gave me
a hug on the way out.
- I take it he sold a
few big ticket items?
- All the big ticket items.
- What about Jo?
She didn't have time
to sit down all night.
- I'm really happy to hear that.
- I know.
You did a good thing last night.
I don't know about that.
Main street's gonna live to
see another day because of you.
[Knocking]
Hey. I got your message.
Yeah, we need to talk.
I heard the Christmas
market was a huge success.
That's good news.
Yeah, thanks in
large part to Darcy.
What happened, Brent?
The committee voted against it.
Why? You and I
both know there was
nothing wrong
with that proposal.
I wouldn't say that.
His environmental
assessments were six years old.
You can't just expect
us to sign off on that.
So order them to be re-done,
you don't just throw it away.
It's not just that.
The committee was hesitant
to go back into business
with a Hawkins.
The committee or you?
Both.
And if I'm being
perfectly honest,
I think your judgement is a
little clouded on this issue.
What does that mean?
Come on, Alex. I'm not blind.
I am thinking about
the good of this town.
Well, the committee disagrees.
You are welcome to
appeal the decision though.
You know if you
stand out here too long,
you're gonna catch a cold.
Are you okay?
Doesn't seem fair.
Feels like they used us.
No, they didn't.
They welcomed us.
But your apartment...
Oh, Darcy, don't worry
about the apartment.
There are plenty of
other places to live.
I'll be fine.
Now, don't let the past
stand in the way of your future.
Okay?
Not a bad place to live, huh?
Not bad at all.
I hear the Christmas
market was a big hit.
Congratulations.
Not to everybody.
Yeah, I heard about
the committee's decision.
I'm sorry it didn't go your way.
[Sighs] You know, I just
thought, after all this...
people would be able to move on.
Well, these things take time.
Darcy was right.
I got what I wanted,
but what did he get?
I let him down. Again.
For what it's worth,
you were right about him.
He's not his father.
If anyone made a
mistake, it was me.
You have faith in
people, no matter what.
And that's what makes
you so good at this job.
You're a better
mayor than I ever was.
Dad.
No, no, no, no,
no, no. I mean it.
Yeah, I know I taught you a lot,
but you bring your
mother's heart into it.
I know she'd be proud so of you.
I certainly am.
So, then why does it
still feel like I failed?
Because you care about him.
And maybe it's not too late.
What do you mean?
Well, just because
the vote's been taken
doesn't mean the
paperwork's been filed yet.
What?
Building permits don't
get put into the system
until the end of the week.
So, until it gets filed...
It's not set in stone.
Still a chance to
change their minds.
[Laughing]
You really are a genius, dad.
you learn a few things.
Thank you.
Go get 'em, honey.
I will.
Love you.
Love you!
Brent: Alright, that
sounds like a great idea.
We'll take a look at
that in the new year.
Alright, everyone, I guess
that pretty much wraps us up.
Wait!
Mayor foster?
What are you doing here?
I need to talk to you all.
Hi, everyone.
We're just finishing up.
It's our last day
before the holidays.
I know, but this is important.
It's about the Hawkins mill.
[Groaning] We've
already voted on that.
I know, but I'm not sure it was
given the appropriate
consideration.
As you may have heard,
the Christmas market
opened up last night and so far
it has exceeded
our expectations.
Yes, but it's only temporary.
Exactly, but it
doesn't have to be.
Think about what
opening the mill year round
could do for economic growth.
Not only would it be
the permanent home
for the Christmas market,
but it could also
host other events,
like conferences and weddings.
Not to mention new
businesses, new residents,
and new infrastructure.
This is exactly what
Hawkins bay needs.
The only hesitation
I'm sensing here is
about the name on the paper.
Look, I understand.
This town has been
through a lot over the years
and it's only natural for
some of us to be wary.
But think about the
opportunity we have here.
What it would
symbolize for our town.
A fresh start, a new chapter,
a chance to move
forward together.
Good speech.
It's what I believe.
So, what do you say?
Will you reconsider?
[Barking]
Hi, Ruby.
[Knocking]
Alex?
Hi, Mrs. Hawkins.
Is Darcy here?
Oh. No, I'm sorry,
dear. He's not.
He left a little while ago.
Do you know where he went?
I'm afraid not.
Well, listen, about
the apartments...
Oh, don't worry about that.
Anywhere I can
get a hot cup of tea,
a fresh deck of cards,
and my knitting, I'm good.
Well, it won't have
to be just anywhere.
What?
What's this?
The renovations for
the mill got approved.
[Gasping]
How wonderful. Thank you.
You're welcome.
And, please, tell Darcy...
Thank you for everything.
I will.
And Alex?
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
♪
Alex, there you are.
Look at this place! It's
busier than last night.
I'm so glad, Jo.
Do you think it's enough?
Are you gonna be okay?
More than okay.
Any luck with Darcy?
Um, no.
I'm sorry, Alex.
I just wish he was here to
see all the good he's done.
Who's done?
Darcy.
What do you
mean? I just saw him.
What?
Yeah, he's outside.
Really?
Yeah.
Go! Go, go, go, go, go, go!
[All laughing]
♪
Hi.
You came back.
Well, I do own the building.
Yes, you do.
About that...
No, no. I overreacted.
I shouldn't have left like that.
I'm so sorry.
Don't apologize.
I would have felt the same way.
But you should know...
The permit's been approved.
- Really?
- Yeah.
How did you...
I talked to the board.
Better late than never.
You really don't give up do you?
Darcy.
No matter what
happens after this...
i just wanted to say thank you.
Not just for the
Christmas market,
but for our time together.
This past week with you.
[Giggling nervously]
I've had more fun
and felt more joy
than I have since I was a kid.
And I didn't know
how badly I needed
to feel like that again.
So...
Thank you.
You know...
I'd convinced myself that
if I kept my world small,
just me and gran and Ruby,
that would be enough.
And then you came
stomping up to my front door.
I did not stomp.
Oh, you were stomping.
Then everything changed.
Thing is, I don't know
what I'm gonna do because
I don't think I can go back.
I don't want to go back.
So, if it's alright with you...
I'd like to stick around.
I think that can be arranged.
♪
Come on.
There's something
I wanna show you.
[Chuckling]
What?!
How?
I had to drive two
counties over to get them.
That's where you went?
Turns out it's a
tough time of year
to find a last
minute sleigh ride.
[Laughing]
Come on.
Hey, boy.
How you doing? Hi.
I can't believe you did this.
People are going to love it.
I hope so...
but the first ride's for you.
♪
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
♪
It Takes a Christmas Village (2021)
Moderator: Maskath3