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Mount Vernon, Ohio – Presented by Park National Bank and Experience Mount Vernon, Winter in Downtown is a festive line-up of community events that fill the heart of Mount Vernon with light, laughter, and holiday spirit. From small business shopping to twinkling lights and visits with Santa, there’s something for everyone.
Shop Small Saturday
Hosted by the Mount Vernon Downtown Merchants
Saturday, November 29 – All Day
Support local businesses and discover unique gifts throughout Downtown Mount Vernon during this nationwide celebration of shopping small. Experience Mount Vernon is a proud American Express Neighborhood Champion.
Holiday Memories Photo Booth
Sponsored by Dean’s Jewelry
Sunday, November 30 – 1:30-6:30 p.m.
*Food for the Hungry Food Collection Point
Mount Vernon Grand Hotel, lower lobby
Create lasting memories with free photos before and after the parade!
Annual Holiday Parade: Once Upon a Holiday
Sponsored by Burrata Woodfired
Sunday, November 30 – 4:00 p.m.
*Food for the Hungry Food Collection Point
South Main Street, Downtown Mount Vernon
Enjoy dazzling floats inspired by your favorite holiday stories.
This year’s parade theme, sponsored by Burrata Woodfired, is “Once Upon a Holiday,” invites participants to bring their favorite winter, holiday, or Christmas storybook to life. From The Grinch and The Polar Express to A Christmas Carol and Frosty the Snowman, parade entries are encouraged to reimagine holiday classics with creativity, community spirit, and plenty of holiday magic. The deadline to register a float or other entry is November 16, 2025. Registration link: www.experiencemv.org/winter-in-downtown
Lighting of Public Square
Sponsored by Ariel Corporation
Sunday, November 30 – 5:00 p.m.
*Food for the Hungry Food Collection Point
Public Square
Watch the heart of the city come alive with the glow of holiday lights in this cherished community tradition.
Pictures with Santa
Sponsored by The Mount Vernon Grand Hotel
Sunday, November 30 – 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 10 – 5:30-7:00 p.m.
*Food for the Hungry Food Collection Point
The Mount Vernon Grand Hotel, lower lobby
Meet Santa and capture magical moments. Free event.
Festival of Lights Holiday Lighting Competition
Sponsored by Knox Community Hospital
Voting open December 12-14
Experience the twinkle and creativity of Mount Vernon’s homes and businesses as they compete in the festive community lighting contest.
“Winter in Downtown truly captures what makes Mount Vernon special,” said Lacey Filkins, Executive Director of Experience Mount Vernon. “This series of events brings people together to celebrate the season, support local businesses, and create joyful memories.”
For complete information on Winter in Downtown events and parade float registration, please visit www.experiencemv.org/winter-in-downtown.
Follow @experiencemountvernon on social media for the latest event details, sneak peeks, and live updates.
ABOUT EXPERIENCE MOUNT VERNON:
Experience Mount Vernon is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fosters a vibrant downtown through meaningful community experiences. Visit www.experiencemv.org for more information.
Photos courtesy of Emily Morrison Arts.