Midland Downtown launches the holiday season with festive lineup

The holiday season is upon us, and Downtown Midland is lighting up with a series of festive events designed to bring cheer and joy to the community. From fun runs to shopping extravaganzas, there's something for everyone to enjoy as the city embraces the holiday spirit.

Jingle Bell Fun Run Returns
Lace up your sneakers and don your most festive attire as the beloved Jingle Bell Fun Run makes its return on Thursday, Dec. 5. This free, untimed 1-mile run/walk kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at the corner of Ashman and Main Streets. Participants of all ages are encouraged to dress in holiday sweaters, Santa hats, or any cheerful gear. Registered runners will receive a jingle bell bracelet to add musical merriment to the streets of Midland. 

Instead of a registration fee, attendees are invited to bring nonperishable food items to support the Midland County Food Assistance Network. Donations of peanut butter, crackers, mac & cheese, ramen noodles, soups, spaghetti sauce & noodles, cereal, and canned fruits are especially appreciated.

Holly Jolly Days Shopping Experience 
Starting on Friday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Holly Jolly Days transforms Downtown Midland into a shopper's paradise. For three days, guests can enjoy special holiday deals, admire beautifully painted window displays, and warm up by outdoor fireplaces with a beverage from The Commons. Family-friendly activities abound, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere while finding the perfect gifts for loved ones.

Third Annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
Prepare to get ugly—in the best way possible! The Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl returns for its third year on Friday, Dec. 6, starting at 7 p.m. Don your most outlandish holiday sweater and visit participating bars and pubs throughout Downtown Midland. The event is free to attend, though patrons must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcohol. Participating establishments include:

• Blu Midland
• Brinstar Arcade Bar & Grill
• Grape Beginnings Winery
• Joyful Tantrum & Serendipity Road
• Molasses Smokehouse
• Nor’East Outdoors
• Tavern on Main
• Three Bridges Distillery & Taproom
• WhichCraft Taproom

Bar crawlers can start at any location and move at their own pace. Please be mindful of each establishment's operating hours.

Holiday Rush Shopping Event
For those who like to shop down to the wire, Holiday Rush on Dec. 20 is the perfect solution. From 12:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Downtown Midland businesses are pulling out all the stops to assist last-minute shoppers. Special stations and offers will be available to help you find the perfect gifts just in time.

Throughout the holiday season, shoppers can pick up a paper wish list from downtown businesses. Fill it out with your desired items and pass it along to someone who might need a hint. Return the wish list during the Holiday Rush, and you'll be entered into a drawing for a chance to win prizes donated by downtown merchants.

Embrace the Holiday Spirit
Downtown Midland invites everyone to join the festivities and make lasting memories this holiday season. Whether you're running through the streets jingling all the way, savoring a warm drink by the fire, or finding that perfect gift, downtown is the place to be.

For more information, visit the Downtown Midland website or follow them on social media.