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.

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)