Holiday cheer abounds in Oxford!

As the weather gets cooler and the holidays draw closer, ESPN’s “Best College Town” is transformed into a winter wonderland with the return of the annual Holly Jolly Holidays!

Starting November 23, locals and visitors alike will gather to take part in the myriad of festive events and celebrations Oxford has to offer. From the ceremonial “Lighting of the Square” on November 7, visits with Santa, a 4,000-square-foot ice-skating rink, the enchanting all-new Walk of Lights throughout mTrade Park, and the Peppermint Trail, a holiday visit to this charming small town will transport you to the North Pole.

Lighting of The Square

Join Santa Claus on the Oxford Square on Thursday, November 7 beginning at 6:00 p.m. to ring in the start of the holiday season! Get there early to hear the Christmas carols and to ensure not to miss the ceremonial lighting of the canopy of lights on the Square, which captures the magic of the season and transports you into a Hallmark movie.

Matt Nichols

Ice-Skating

Break out your warmest mittens and come experience Oxford’s very own “winter wonderland” from November 23 – January 5 at mTrade Park! The rink that is installed features real ice and you can even rent a skate aid if you’re not quite ready for a triple axel on the ice. For all of the details on times, pricing and additional programming, click here.

Walk of Lights

New this year is the Walk of Lights, an immersive holiday lights experience. Custom-designed displays will illuminate mTrade Park, making it a holiday must-see. Warm up with hot chocolate or roast marshmallows with a s’mores kit from the on-site concessions.

Visits with Santa

Luckily for us, Santa always puts Oxford on the nice list! Come visit and take photos with jolly old Saint Nick at the ice-skating rink. He will make his grand appearance during the following times:

  • Saturday, November 23 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 30 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 14 from 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, December 21 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Peppermint Trail

During this Holly Jolly Holiday season, guests can follow the Oxford Peppermint Trail for peppermint flavored holiday treats and peppermint-themed offers. From coffee, cocktails, sweets, and more – experience the peppermint craze along the red-and-white candied trail. Stay tuned for holiday surprises from local Oxford favorites, including various gifts and special treats. Locations and details will be updated here.

Shopping on or off the Square

Get your holiday shopping done right here in our snow globe town! Storefronts have certainly decked the halls and are a sight to see whether you’re shopping during the day or well into the sunset! If you’re looking for decor, you must make a trip to Inside Discount, located off Highway 6. For something closer to town, check out Katherine Beck, Olive Juice Gifts or Neilson’s Department Store on the Square. Holiday party coming up? Hinton & Hinton Her is sure to have something festive and sparkly to wear! If you’re shopping for loved ones, there is something for everyone to be found in any of our locally owned downtown shops.

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