Holiday Season is Around the Corner and Oxford is Ready to Celebrate

From a charming Holiday Village filled with gingerbread houses to a newly launched Peppermint Trail, the quaint town of Oxford is the perfect place to spend the holidays.

This small town is filled with joyful holiday events throughout November and December.

A leisurely stroll through the historic downtown Square becomes extra special this time of year with unique boutiques, festive flavors and magical holiday lights displays, such as the Square’s Canopy of Lights that have been an Oxford staple for nearly 60 years.

As the temperatures drop and the trees begin to glisten, this homey, college town becomes a little like Santa’s workshop in the North Pole. Several family-friendly events and shows are presented locally, including:

• Holly Jolly Holidays: The fourth annual Holly Jolly Holidays is returning to Oxford this winter, capturing the spirit of the season with festive experiences that include visits with Santa, ice skating, lighting of the tree and the Peppermint Trail.
• Peppermint Trail: New this year to Holly Jolly Holidays, the Peppermint Trail will lead guests to all the special holiday treats and promotions. Guests are encouraged to follow the trail of peppermints on the sidewalks all around Oxford to explore a variety of peppermint treats. From coffee to cocktails, sweets, and more – experience the peppermint craze along the red-and-white candied trail from Nov. 18 – Jan. 7.
• Holiday Village: This annual event at the Ford Center offers a magical atmosphere with Gingerbread houses designed by community members and civic groups, a miniature village with a working train, a holiday-themed Lego house, a mailbox for Santa, a decorated tree surrounded by gifts by a fireplace hung with stockings and more.
• Shop Oxford’s Holiday Open House: On Sunday, November 5, enjoy holiday music, shopping, cookies and hot cocoa, kids crafts, Santa visits and more on The Square from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Peppermint Bear and the Toy Elves: From Nov. 30 – Dec. 2, Theatre Oxford presents Peppermint Bear and the Toy Elves, a family-friendly musical featuring Santa, Elves, and Peppermint Bear. 
• Christmas Parade: On December 4 at 6:30 p.m., gather for the Oxford Christmas Parade and see the festive Whoville-related floats.

Staff report