Merry, Jolly, Holly-days!

It’s the holliest, jolliest, merriest time of the year! This month, the streets of downtown will be lined with cheer in celebration of Pittsboro Holly Days. From November 19 through December 14, we look forward to sharing in the joy of the holiday season with our neighbors, our small businesses in the place we call home.

Tree Lighting Celebration – Sunday, November 19

Maybe you already have your Christmas tree up, or maybe Pittsboro is beating you to the punch… Either way, there’s much merry to be had at the first event of Pittsboro Holly Days. From 3:30-6:30 p.m., local businesses will open their doors for special events. Let the Christmas shopping season officially commence! Before you hit the racks, stop by to visit with Santa, starting at 3:30 p.m. It’s not too late to make your list!

To close out the evening, a festive celebration will feature school choirs, carolers and the lighting of Pittsboro’s 18-foot Christmas tree at Chatham County Courthouse!

Small Business Saturday – Saturday, November 25

In a world where you can shop anywhere, make sure you shop local. For Small Business Saturday, small businesses in downtown Pittsboro will form the epicenter of gift shopping, for everyone on your list. Stop by the Pittsboro Welcome Center at 964 East St. for gift wrapping and your shoppers’ passport. Passport in hand, visit local stores to be entered for gift card drawings!

First Sunday Artisan Fair – Sunday, December 3

From crafts, to music, to food, the First Sunday Artisan Fair will showcase local shops, restaurants and the Chatham Historical Museum. Special events will be taking place from 12-4 p.m.!

Pittsboro Christmas Parade – Sunday, December 10

Starting at 3 p.m., one of Pittsboro’s favorite holiday traditions returns! It’s time for the annual Pittsboro Christmas Parade, featuring festively decorated floats sponsored by local groups and businesses. Each unique float will sparkle with holiday-themed costumes, floats and holiday lights.

The parade will begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, continue down East Street and conclude on Farrell Street. As seating will not be provided, spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets. Registration is required for groups interested in decorated and hosting a float in the parade. Registration is open online until December 6.

Pittsboro by Luminaria – Thursday, December 14

In Spanish, “luminaria” means “illumination” or “festival of light.” First recorded in the 16th century, Spanish people lit luminarias along roads to guide people to mass, a tradition meant to reflect the story of Mary and Joseph’s quest for lodging in Bethlehem. Centuries later, people light luminarias during the holidays, enlightening the way for those who pass by, welcoming them.

From 3-7 p.m., downtown Pittsboro will be illuminated by luminarias. Whether you come to shop, sip, dine or walk, you’ll feel and see the holiday spirit all around!