Celebrate the Holiday Season in Hattiesburg and Oxford

News Summary

Hattiesburg and Oxford, Mississippi are highlighted by Forbes as top destinations to experience a Hallmark holiday. With festive events, charming decorations, and community spirit, both towns promise an unforgettable celebration. Oxford features the Holly Jolly Holidays and the unique Oxford on Ice, while Hattiesburg is known for its Victorian Candlelit Christmas and annual Jaycees Christmas Parade. Enjoy local delights and the ambiance of these picturesque towns this holiday season!

Get Ready to Celebrate: Hattiesburg and Oxford Shine Bright This Holiday Season!

The holiday season is here and it’s officially time to embrace the festive spirit! If you’re looking for the perfect small towns to fill your heart with warmth and joy, look no further than Hattiesburg and Oxford, Mississippi. These charming towns have just been named by Forbes as two of the top spots in the United States to experience a Hallmark holiday and they are ready to put on quite the show!

Oxford: A Hallmark Dream Come True

First up is Oxford, a town that perfectly embodies the holiday spirit. With its picturesque downtown square, Oxford was even featured in the Hallmark movie On the 12th Date of Christmas and was highlighted in Fox Business Network’s “Small Town Christmas” series just this year. It’s easy to see why this cozy town is making a splash!

Oxford is bustling with festive events this season. The Holly Jolly Holidays event has transformed the downtown area into a stunning winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and delightful decorations that’ll make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a holiday movie. And don’t forget to check out the Walk of Lights display, which pays homage to the rich history of the town while lighting up the night.

For those wanting to skate into the holiday spirit, the Oxford on Ice skating rink at mTrade Park offers a delightful way to enjoy the season. Santa will be making regular appearances in the downtown square, and don’t miss the Peppermint Trail, leading visitors to local shops that are serving up festive goodies, gifts, and special holiday concoctions. Talk about a sweet journey!

Hattiesburg: The Heart of Holiday Cheer

Next, we have Hattiesburg, known for its vibrancy and a rich tapestry of art, music, and holiday cheer. This season, Hattiesburg is bursting with stunning decorations, transforming downtown streets into a magical display of lights that capture the essence of the holidays.

The city has a tradition that dates back 74 years with the yearly Jaycees Christmas Parade, and it’s a staple that locals and visitors alike absolutely love. On December 14 and 15, the annual Victorian Candlelit Christmas will illuminate the historic sidewalks with over 18,000 glowing luminaries! It’s a sight that is sure to take your breath away.

Hattiesburg also combines festivities with shopping during the Downtown Candlelit Christmas Sip and Shop, coinciding with the nearby Historic Neighborhood’s Victorian Candlelit Christmas event. Enjoy delightful carriage rides and the enchanting sounds of caroling that fill the air.

With more than 300 homes and businesses decked out in garlands and twinkling lights, the holiday mood is infectious. Hattiesburg isn’t just about the lights though; it’s also home to unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment options like the award-winning zoo, water park, and the intriguing Pocket Museum that sparks curiosity for visitors of all ages.

Planning Your Visit

When in Hattiesburg, be sure to stop by local favorites like the Lucky Rabbit and Southern Prohibition Brewing for delightful food and drinks. Over in Oxford, the cozy shopping areas boast shops like Square Books along with delightful local distilleries and breweries to try out!

So, whether you’re on team Oxford or rooting for Hattiesburg, make sure to mark your calendars and experience these charming towns for a holiday season filled with joy, community, and memories that will last a lifetime. With twinkling lights, festive events, and all the cozy vibes, you’re in for an unforgettable Hallmark holiday experience in these Mississippi gems!