The historic town of Shepherdstown will kick off its annual “Christmas in Shepherdstown” celebration on Friday, Nov. 29, the day after Thanksgiving. Organizers say this year’s celebration will be bigger and better than ever, with different events and activities every weekend between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Most events and activities will be free, and everyone is invited to join in.

Every weekend will include children’s activities; holiday marketplaces selling handmade crafts, baked goods, and greens; and special musical performances. Many shops will be open late on Fridays and Saturdays.

There will be free parking in all the metered spaces in town on Friday, Nov. 29, and every Saturday afternoon and Sunday. Free parking will also be available weekends in the Shepherd University parking lot at High and Princess streets, one block from downtown.

The Nov. 29 schedule will include 5-8 p.m. evening events that are traditional for the town: a bonfire, a chili and cornbread supper, the lighting of the town tree, the arrival of Santa, and children’s visits with Santa. Other highlights of that weekend will be free carriage rides, a magic show for children, a live Nativity and a Christmas concert at O’Hurley’s General Store.

The town will hold its annual Christmas parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The Dec. 7-8 weekend will also feature a model train exhibit, a children’s tea, a sing-along and the Shepherd University Music Department’s annual holiday concert. Carriage rides and the live Nativity will continue.

Highlights of the next two weekends will include three performances of the Shepherdstown School of Dance’s annual Nutcracker Ballet during the Dec. 14-15 weekend and a “Tuba Christmas” concert on Saturday, Dec. 21.

Events and activities will continue to be added. For a up-to-date listing of all events keep checking www.christmasinshepherdstown.com. Or contact the Shepherdstown Visitors Center at 304-876-2786 or info@shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com.