A cherished Dripping Springs holiday tradition is upon us and what better way to kick off the Christmas season! Now in its 10th year, Christmas on Mercer Street returns to downtown Dripping Springs, bringing friends and families together for an old-fashioned celebration.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., as the City of Dripping Springs and the Dripping Springs Lions Club host a day-long festival on Mercer Street. Admission is free to the public for this fun-filled day of laughter and merriment the whole family will enjoy.

The charming downtown setting will be transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with lights, holiday decorations, festive music and plenty of holiday cheer. Photos with Santa, train rides, pony rides, and a variety of arts and crafts booths will be in full swing. The day's events will culminate with the momentous Christmas Tree lighting at dusk at the Triangle.

This year, festivities will commence at 10:00 a.m. with music, crafts and live performances, as well as a classic car show along Mercer Street. And, be sure to bring your appetite! Dozens of restaurants and local food vendors are joining the celebration, with picnic areas and seating available throughout the event. And, don't forget your Christmas lists. You and your guests will love to explore all of the gift packages local restaurants and merchants have prepared for the holidays.

Of course, what's a Christmas celebration without a visit from Santa? To kick off the festivities, Santa Claus will ride into town on his Clydesdale-drawn carriage. Parents and children are encouraged to have their photos taken with Santa to memorialize the occasion.

The highlight of the evening will be the annual lighting of the Dripping Springs Lions Club Christmas Tree at the Triangle. At sunset, people are invited to gather for a beautiful display as the tree is illuminated, showing off its twinkling lights and festive decorations. This is a moment not to be missed! Christmas carolers from local Dripping Springs churches and schools will serenade the crowd with heart-warming holiday songs. Hot chocolate and coffee will also be available to warm you up as you sing and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

Christmas on Mercer Street will surely make a lasting impression on you and your family, as it is a much-loved holiday tradition. As mentioned, admission to the festival remains free thanks to the sponsors, community organizations, businesses and individuals who give so generously.

This year, the Hill Country Gift Tour is the week prior to Christmas on Mercer Street, providing visitors with two opportunities to shop at great Dripping Springs stores and to support local businesses. The Tour, held on Small Business Saturday, November 29th, is sponsored by the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Dripping Springs Lions Club and will feature more than 25 local merchants and restaurants in and around the city. All Hill Country Gift Tour ticket proceeds will benefit the Dripping Springs Lions Club. Those who purchase tickets to the Tour will also receive a special gift at Christmas on Mercer Street. Don't miss out on these two occasions to shop unique local businesses and restaurants and to knock out your Christmas shopping early. We hope to see you there!

To learn more about the sponsors, performers and other information on Christmas on Mercer Street visit www.cityofdrippingsprings.com or visit the event's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ChristmasonMercer.