On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, historic downtown Paducah will be bustling with holiday shoppers and Christmas cheer. On November 25, enjoy the Dickens of a Christmas Small Business Saturday event organized by Paducah Main Street, a division of the Paducah Planning Department. From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., downtown Paducah will be transformed into a Dickens atmosphere with free Victorian carriage rides, dancers, carolers, and characters in costume. Enjoy free coffee, wassail, and s'mores at the fire pit near the gazebo.

Downtown Development Specialist/Paducah Main Street Director Melinda Winchester says, “Each year, the event seems to grow with more businesses eager to participate and celebrate the holidays. For the public, our Small Business Saturday event is a chance to spend the day with family and friends while getting a jumpstart on Christmas shopping. Plus, you are supporting your local businesses by keeping your dollars in this community.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a grand appearance down Broadway in the carriage to the gazebo at 10 a.m. There will be special appearances by Anna, Elsa, Cinderella, the Grinch, and characters from Whoville.

Winchester adds, “I encourage everyone to explore historic downtown Paducah. Many of the stores and restaurants will have specials. Plus, we have new events this year in the Lower Town Arts District including a holiday market with artisan-made items at Ephemera Paducah and art vendors at the Smedley Yeiser. Plus, Paducah Beer Werks will host a Village Pub Tent with Beers of Christmas Past and a beer cheese and potato soup.”

This is the fourth year for the City to host Dickens of a Christmas. Sponsors for this year’s event are Paducah Bank and Paducah Economic Development. Partners include Paducah Tilghman High School, Graves County High School, local scouting troops, Daughters of the American Revolution, Paducah Symphony Youth Chorus, and many talented local vocalists.

Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country. Founded by American Express in 2010, this day is celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.