Holiday magic returns: Christmas Open House lights up downtown Athens

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November 20, 2025

ATHENS – The most wonderful time of the year is approaching!

And the Christmas Open House in Athens will herald in a weekend of fun for the whole family, while also supporting local businesses.

Santa Claus is coming to downtown Athens. (Athens-Limestone Chamber photo)

It all starts Friday with the lighting of the Merchant’s Alley Christmas tree.

Shoppers can also get a head start on Christmas gifting at their favorite downtown shops, many of which are offering Christmas Open House-only deals.

Since shopping can bring on an appetite, there will be a full menu of food trucks, including Happi Pappi Beignets, Taste of Maine, Da Big Italian Food Truck, and Slurp Soda Truck.

Christmas Open House schedule:

Friday
Merchant’s Alley Tree Lighting: 5 p.m.
Merry Market on Marion: 4-8 p.m.
Food Trucks: 4-8 p.m.
Skating on the Square: 4-8 p.m. ($5 cash only)
Saturday
Merry Market on Marion: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Food Trucks: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Photos with Santa: 1-3 p.m. at the County Courthouse steps ($25 card
only)
Skating on the Square: 1-5 p.m. ($5 cash only)
Sunday
Merry Market on Marion: Noon to 5 p.m.
Food Trucks: Noon to 5 p.m.
Photos with Santa: 1-3 p.m. at the County Courthouse steps ($25 card
only)
Skating on the Square: 1-5 p.m. ($5 cash only)

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