With the holidays upon us, the city of Hattiesburg is encouraging its citizens and visitors to get out and downtown. The #getoutandgetdowntown campaign began in the fall, encouraging everyone to come to see what the Hub City has to offer while still abiding by the Covid 19 protection policies to keep everyone as safe as possible. There are plenty of attractions, such as colorful murals, fine dining, and shopping, and there are even more events scheduled for the holiday season.
This Saturday, November 28, 2020, will be the always fun and festive Pinebelt Holiday Expo and Christmas Market. Held at the historic train depot, the extravaganza begins at 10 am and lasts until 3 pm. Come browse the handiworks of local vendors, pick up a unique Christmas present, and enjoy some of Hattiesburg’s finest vendors and restaurants. The free event offers Christmas party ideas, holiday décor, Christmas shopping, sweet treats, and so much more. Take an Elfie Selfie, enjoy the beautiful decorations, and even whisper your Christmas wish to the man of the hour himself, Santa Claus. The Hub City is encouraging everyone to shop local and this is a great place to start and you’re invited to tour the unique downtown shops and restaurants.
Also enjoy a Downtown Christmas Story, featuring a self-guided tour of the gorgeous and festive window displays in the downtown district. This is fabulous to “shop small” and help bring business to the local shops and artisans. Like a scene from a Hallmark Christmas show, you can stroll through the downtown, take in the gorgeous sights, and get a head start on your Christmas shopping, knowing that your purchases will help to bring some much-needed business to the small town shops.
The traditional Victorian Candlelight Tour will be held on December 12, 2020, and will bring the merriment and beauty of the season although in a slightly different manner. The tour has been modified to help keep everyone safe during this uncertain time, and all precautions will be made for the safety of visitors and homeowners. Despite the pandemic, the beauty and wonder of this magical season can’t be taken away, and everyone is invited to attend. If you’ve never been to the Candlelight Tour, you should definitely make plans with the family and friends to attend as you’ll be treated with thousands of lights lining the picturesque area. This should definitely be a family tradition if it isn’t already one for the family.
For more details on the many holiday events planned for the Hub City, you can check out the Downtown Hattiesburg Facebook page or visit the Hattiesburg tourism website at www.downtownHattiesburg.com . This has been such an unprecedented and devasting year, and there’s never been a greater time to add a little extra “Merry” to your holiday season. Celebrate the season and the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and share a little extra love with your family, friends, and neighbors. So make this holiday the merriest, and get out and get downtown to Hattiesburg to enjoy the many holiday attractions and events planned for the Christmas season.
