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 18, 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,” visits with Santa, a 4,000-square-foot ice-skating rink, the newly launched Peppermint Trail, a holiday visit to this charming small town will transport you to the North Pole.

Lighting of The Square

Join Santa Claus and FOX Business Network’s Small Town Christmas on Sunday, November 19 beginning at 6:00p.m. to ring in the start of the holiday season! The ceremonial lighting of the canopy of lights on the Square captures the magic of the season and transports you into a Hallmark movie.

Ice-Skating

Break out your warmest mittens and come experience Oxford’s very own “winter wonderland” from November 18- January 7! 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.

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 18 from 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday, December 2 from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, December 9 from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 16 from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Peppermint Trail

Starting 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.