This Saturday, downtown Farmington will be lit up with holiday magic as The Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual “Holly Days” event returns!

It’s a full day of festivities that begins at 10:00 a.m. Catch a charming ride as the holiday train runs through Riley Park. A warming tent will be ready for socializing and Syndicate beverages. And no winter celebration is complete without the famed Claus couple, ready for a photo and a story!

Our friends at the Farmington Farmers Market are back for one more Saturday with “Greens, Gifts & Giving.” Local artisans will be ready with wreaths and centerpieces, specialty foods, baked goods, and holiday gifts. Fight the nip in the air with hot chocolate and freshly roasted coffee while strolling carolers rouse the holiday spirit.

The day will also be an opportunity to do some good for our community. Stop by John Cowley & Sons Irish Pub for a bowl of homemade chili, which will only cost you a donation. All proceeds go directly to Neighborhood House to continue its work for local food and family assistance. Enjoy a free family holiday film at the Farmington Civic Theater with a donation to the Farmington Area Goodfellows in the form of new unwrapped toys or nonperishable, canned/boxed food items (with 2024 expiration dates and beyond). Cash and check donations will also be accepted, and half of the concessions sales during the occasion likewise benefit the Farmington Area Goodfellows.

As it begins to get dark, the Light Up the Grand Parade brightens things up again all the way to the Governor Warner Mansion for a stunning tree lighting ceremony.

Especially at this time of year, our community means so much, and we are proud to be a part of it and to support many of these local organizations. Visit downtown this weekend to do a little good and enjoy a lot of holiday fun!