Join Mount Vernon merchants for the kick-off to "Hometown Holidays." get into the holiday spirit with free horse-drawn wagon rides through downtown Mount Vernon, live nativity and the lighting of the holiday lights. Local merchants do up the town to make the holiday season bright!

Tuesday, November 27th
Stuff the Bus - WMT radio will be broadcasting live in Mount Vernon to gather donations for local children this season.  Stop by Bauman's at 124 1st St. W in Mount Vernon on Tuesday with new toys, clothes or cash donations from 6am-9am.

Thursday, November 29th Magical Night

5-8pm        Merchant Open House
Local businesses will be featuring live music, treats, drawings, and previewing wonderful gift items for the season.

5:30-7:30pm    Soup Supper
Indulge in warming soup and conversation at the United Methodist Church at 1st St. West, and enjoy music provided by students of Heart Consort Music.  Adults $5, Children $3

5:30-8pm        Wagon Rides
Enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride through downtown Mount Vernon.  Round trip rides start and return to Shepley Pharmacy.

5:30-8pm        Pictures with Santa
Have your complimentary picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Enjoy caroling by the Mount Vernon High School Choir.

5:30-7:30pm    Santa's Elves
The elves will be visiting Mount Vernon Insurance Agency and handing out a special treat from the North Pole.

6:15-7pm        Live Nativity
Experience a live nativity, performed by St. Paul's Lutheran Church at the Visitor's Center.  Hot chocolate and cookies provided by Seeds of Faith Lutheran Church.

6:30pm        Piano Recital
Cathy Risse's piano students will be offering a free concert at the Presbyterian Church, 309 First St. West in Mount Vernon.

5:30-8pm        Bake Sale
The Performing Arts and Activities Council of Cornell College will be selling holiday treats, as a fundraiser for the group, in the City Hall entryway.

6-8pm        Cookie Decorating
To help get the children in the holiday spirit, Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation is sponsoring a cookie decorating activity in City Hall, 213 First St. NW.