‘Hometown Christmas’ taking place downtown

Xenia will hold its annual “Hometown Christmas” festivities in historic Downtown Xenia, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25.

The 2017 festivities will feature numerous events and activities throughout the day, including a light show finale at Xenia’s iconic Shawnee Park that will feature more than 10,000 lights programmed to Christmas music. The 2017 light show is being produced and donated free of charge as a way to give back by Xenia Police Chief Randy Person, who has held the popular light display at his home in previous years.

Other activities throughout the day include:

■ 9 a.m.-Noon: 5K Ugly Sweater Reindeer Run and Winterland Walk - Xenia Station, 150 South Miami Ave., with proceeds benefitting Xenia Police community outreach

■ 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, X-Act 1 Theatre, 45 E. Second St.

■ 4-4:30 p.m.: Hometown Christmas 2017 Parade - Starts at Xenia Station with procession to Shawnee Park

■ 5-9 p.m.: Shawnee Park Festivities, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Reindeer and Reindeer Games, food trucks and vendors, Xenia Choir Ensemble and Xenia High School Jazz Band, featured Christmas performer Alexis Gomez, American Idol Finalist and Country Singer, and the “Xenia Lights” Light Show Finale.

Christmas volunteers are still being accepted by the Home Town 2017 Christmas organizers and are asked to call Rebecca Cantrell at 937-825-5554 or via email at hometownchristmas@ci.xenia.oh.us.