The annual Powell holiday tradition of ChristmasFest starts Thursday, with Sample the Season. Hosted by the Powell Economic Partnership and Powell Chamber of Commerce, the event captures the nostalgia of doing Christmas shopping in downtown Powell.

Residents can stroll with friends and family to favorite local stores. Sample yummy food, refreshments, and holiday treats under the twinkle of Christmas lights. 

“Sample the Season is a community event favorite. We have 33 businesses participating in Sample the Season this year,” said Rebekah Burns, PEP executive director. “Powell has an increased number of retailers downtown than in recent history, many of them offering great deals. There are so many stores to shop for unique local items.”

Businesses will be offering appetizers and desserts, and Burns suggested making a reservation for dinner at one of the downtown restaurants.

“Also, plan to stop by the service providers,” she said. “It is a good time to chat about what they can do for you as well.”

At The Commons, located at 125 N. Bent Street, the chamber will be handing out free shopping bags full of coupons and deals, as well as a map of participating businesses. The Thursday event will run from 5-7 p.m.

The holiday celebration continues on Friday, Dec. 3, with hot cocoa and vintage campers decked out with lights and Christmas decorations. 

Then on Saturday, Dec. 4, there will be musical entertainment at Plaza Diane from 10 a.m. to noon. After enjoying the singing and clogging — and potentially grabbing some lunch at downtown restaurants — people can head to The Commons for a holiday crafts event for the kids. Rumor has it that Santa will visit Plaza Diane around 2 p.m., and organizers hope he’ll stay until around 4 p.m.

The vintage camper tour will also continue, from 2-5 p.m. 

The celebration will continue Saturday evening with a lighted parade, which will begin marching down Bent Street at 5:30 p.m.