Image of a red double decker bus in front of houses decorated for the holidays.

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Holly Jolly Holiday Cheer in Oxford, Mississippi

By: TLP's Partners

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Celebrate the holiday’s in Oxford, Mississippi.

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 on Sunday, November 19 beginning at 6:00 p.m. to ring in the start of the holiday season! Fox Business Network’s “Small Town Christmas” tv show will be on-site filming for a feature episode set to air on December 16. The ceremonial lighting of the canopy of lights on the Square captures the magic of the season and transports you into a Hallmark movie.

Over head image of the The Square in Oxford that is lit up with celebratory lights for the holidays. — Lighting of The Square is a holiday tradition in Oxford.

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 information about skating hours and pricing, go to Visit Oxford’s website.

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.

A photo of a small phone booth with a Santa action figure inside sitting on a table in front of someone dresses as Santa.

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 on Visit Oxford’s Peppermint Trail website.

Eat

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a delicious holiday meal! Oxford is a “foodie town” known for its rich culinary scene, and there is truly something for everyone (even Santa’s pickiest elves). From classic Southern comfort food at Ajax’s Diner to upscale wood fired pizzas at Saint Leo and fine dining at City Grocery, there is no shortage of fabulous eats! A full list of Oxford restaurants can be found here.

Two men and a women eating dinner at a restaurant. One more and women are clinking cocktail classes together as a "cheers."

Stay

With a wide variety of hotels to choose from, you will have no trouble finding a comfortable place to stay during your visit. Choose from boutique hotels like the newly renovated Oliver Hotel or The Graduate or a charming bed and breakfast such as The South Lamar B&B. You can also find trusted chains like Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn, and La Quinta, as well as others. You are sure to experience a generous dose of Southern hospitality no matter where you stay! A full list of lodging options can be found here.