NORFOLK, Neb -- The spirit of Christmas comes early in downtown Norfolk. Kicking off the holidays, Norfolk is hosting its annual Hometown Holiday Festival with many activities. 

Scott Buss, the Marketing Coordinator for Downtown Norfolk Association said, “This is a great event for Norfolk because it brings so many people out and about. It allows many of the stores to showcase themselves and give residents an opportunity to get some early Christmas shopping done early.”

The Holiday Christmas event will start with the lighted parade, leading Santa to River Point Square for visits with children at 4:30 p.m. 

5-7:30 p.m. – Hay Rack Rides with Elves, courtesy of the River Point Creative District

5-7:30 p.m. – Live Reindeer between Leon’s & Kookaburra’s Kloset

5-7:30 p.m. – S’mores Stations located at U.S. Bank & near Window World, courtesy of Boy Scouts, AWG, and Hy-Vee

6:30 p.m. – Tree Lighting in River Point Square

7:30 p.m. – Ping Pong Ball Drop will take place , courtesy of Visit Norfolk

To wrap up the night and have the best view near the intersection of 5th St. & Norfolk Ave, facing West, they will also have a drone show. According to last year by Scott, “This show will be a lot bigger. Last year we had a 150 drones and we are having 200 In the air this year. 

On top of everything already mentioned, many of the individual stores have additional things going on as well. 

News Channel Nebraska will attend a few events and capture it live in Facebook Live. 

You can also stream the evening’s music and itinerary beginning at 3:30 p.m. on 92.7FM, 107.5FM or stream online at  US92.com