Festive Fridays

Celebrate the season with Festive Fridays—a new weekly holiday tradition in downtown! From November 21 to December 19, enjoy carols, shopping, family-friendly fun, and special events like the Gingerbread House Competition and Living Windows.

Hop on the Holly Trolley, running every Friday from 5-8 p.m.., and visit a new store or restaurant each week. Downtown shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues are encouraged to stay open until 8 p.m. to join in the festivities.

Free Rides on the Holly Trolly

Get into the holiday spirit with a free ride on the Holly Trolley, running every Friday from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. during Festive Fridays. The trolley runs on a continuous 10-15 minutes loop, connecting downtown with the Northside – making it easy and fun to explore all shops and restaurants.  Hop aboard on Washington Street across from The Englert Theatre.

Blackhawk Park will receive an upgrade this year, transforming into a festive gathering spot filled with trees, lighting, music, and cocktail tables perfect for mingling. Designed especially for the season, the Ped Mall will feel more magical than ever—and the beloved Pop-up Shops continue to anchor the space, offering a unique shopping experience for the community.   

November 21: ‘Tis the Season Kickoff

Start the season off right with festive fun for everyone!

November 28: Festive in Fleece

Don your ugliest sweater and celebrate with family in-town for Thanksgiving!

  • Visit the Pop-up Shops (rotating vendors)
  • Don your ugliest holiday sweater!
  • Enjoy festive drink specials at local bars and restaurants
  • Sip on warm beverages from Wild Culture in Blackhawk Park

December 5: Cocoa & Kernels

Shop with hot cocoa in-hand!

  • Enjoy FilmScene’s signature popcorn in Blackhawk Park
  • Sip on complimentary cocoa in Blackhawk Park
  • Visit the Pop-up Shops (rotating vendors)
  • After Festive Fridays, head to The Nutcracker at The Englert Theatre!

December 12: Gingerbread House Competitions

“We came. We built. We ate the front porch.”

December 19: Living Windows

Festive Fridays ends with a magical evening of living window displays!

  • Revel in the magic of storefronts brought to life with living window displays!
  • Visit the Pop-up Shops (rotating vendors)