Downtown Candlelit Christmas this weekend, Dec. 12 & 13

HATTIESBURG, MS (DEC. 9, 2020) – Downtown Candlelit Christmas, a holiday favorite, is set for this weekend, Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13 in Downtown Hattiesburg and the Historic Neighborhood. Hundreds of locals and visitors attend this annual holiday weekend, which includes a variety of special events, all centered in and around Downtown Hattiesburg. Most festivities are free and open to the public.

One of Hattiesburg’s longest running holiday traditions, the 44th Annual Victorian Candlelit Christmas welcomes all to the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood. More than 18,000 luminaries will line the streets of the neighborhood and into the greater downtown district, lighting the way for a nostalgic experience. With more than 300 homes and businesses decorated for the holidays, there is space for all to enjoy the festivities safely.

“We are excited to see this two-day holiday tradition continue this year,” Andrea Saffle, executive director of the Downtown Hattiesburg Association, said. “Many events over the last nine months have been cancelled due to Covid; however, with modifications to follow social distancing and safety guidelines, the Downtown Candlelit Christmas and many festivities are able to continue as planned.”

To follow CDC guidelines, the Victorian Candlelit Christmas holiday home tours will be offered virtually this year and focus on six historic homes in the neighborhood. Tickets are not required for the virtual tours. A list and map of the tour of homes will be available on the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood website and Facebook page. Additionally, horse-drawn carriage rides will not be available for the 2020 event.

HCLO is offering six Ghosts of Christmas Past guided walking tours, where participants will meet some of Hattiesburg’s most notable ghosts and hear historical stories. Tickets for these tours are $15 each and can be purchased online at HCLO.org while available. Masks are required on tours.

Other activities for the two-day event include the “A Downtown Christmas Story” self-guided window tour, holiday decorations in Town Square Park, multiple photo opportunities on Main Street, Christmas carolers on the steps of Sacred Heart Church, and extended shopping hours and holiday events at local retailers.

"Everyone can find something to get them in the holiday spirit this weekend in Downtown. Grab a bite to eat, stroll through the twinkling candlelit streets, mark some gifts off your lists, and enjoy time with loved ones,” Saffle said.

With Downtown’s "Go Cup” ordinance, adults can grab a drink and stroll through the candle-lined streets, enjoying the activities throughout downtown. Shops and galleries open later for evening hours include Blooms Company, Oddfellows Gallery, McKenzie's on Main, Walnut Square Gifts & Stationery, Main Street Books & Wildflower Market, The Author Shoppe, Twin Forks Wine & Provisions (curbside only), Ruby Nails, Go Young Fashions, Sacks Outdoor, Boho Platter Company, Go Young Fashions, The Lucky Rabbit, and The Shop Downtown. Patrons can also grab tasty food and cocktails at a downtown pub or restaurant like Fika Swedish Café, Blu Jazz Café, Nellie’s Chicken & Daiquiris, The Porter, Fairley’s Wings, SoPro Taproom and Art of Roux, and various food trucks.

In accordance with City of Hattiesburg mask mandates, mask will be required indoors.

Schedule of Activities:

Both Days

· For the 44th year, 18,000 luminaries will light the sidewalks throughout the Historic Neighborhood and Downtown for the Victorian Candlelit Christmas.

· Offering a safe twist on this holiday tradition, the Holiday Tour of Homes will be virtual this year and feature six historic homes. Available both Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., no tickets necessary. A list of houses will be available on the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood Facebook page.

· Enjoy the self-guided “A Downtown Christmas Story” window tour throughout the month and vote on which window display is your favorite. More details available on the Facebook Event.

· Visit Town Square Park throughout the holiday season to immerse yourself in its winter wonderland of lights.

Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 Only

· Take a stroll back in time on the Ghosts of Christmas Past Walking Tour, presented by HCLO, and hear stories of Hattiesburg’s history from some of its colorful characters. Tickets available at hclo.org.

· Enjoy Christmas carolers on the steps of Sacred Heart Church from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

· Shop local at downtown retailers this holiday season. Many shops will be open late, and some will offer live music and complimentary refreshments.