On Friday, we cut the ribbon on our Natchez Christmas Trolley, creatively dubbed “The Holly Jolly Trolley.”

We also cut the ribbon on this year’s European Christmas Village, located on the beautiful Natchez Bluff across from the Natchez Grand Hotel. Christmas in Natchez is now officially in high gear — and shopping local just became a lot more fun!

Operating from now to Christmas, the trolley will offer free rides Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 1 to 6 p.m. A city-loop of nine pick-up points will take shoppers to various locations, from antique and specialty shops to gift and clothing stores, restaurants, historic sites, and live music venues. Following is a list of these varied sites around our historic downtown: Visit Natchez at the Depot (Drop-Off / Pick-Up site), The European Christmas Shopping Village on the Bluff, Old South Trading Post, William Johnson House, Wishes Sweets & Eats, Lower Lodge Antiques, Rhythm Night Club Museum, the Downtown Christmas Tree, NAPAC / Natchez Museum of African-American Culture. Jump on and off the trolley at these sites and discover the Christmas magic that awaits!

The European Christmas Village adds to the fun, open on Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 6 p.m. Sponsored by American Cruise Lines, the village, named one of the world’s best Christmas Villages last year by Fodor Travel, will feature locally-made crafts, seasonal treats, unique gift items, and even an “ice-skating rink” experience, cleverly designed for skaters of all ages – make sure to bring your socks!

Other opportunities to shop local and enjoy all historic Natchez has to offer include our now-famous and beloved Natchez Farmers Market on Broadway, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon, and the dozens of amazing shops and stores that adorn our beautiful downtown, just a short trolley ride or walk from the bluff. Many downtown merchants are participating in our “Holiday Host and Toast” event, with extended hours including Sundays!

Travel beyond downtown, and you’ll find even more stores and places to shop – and unique gift ideas around every corner! Over the past four years, we have celebrated nearly 400 ribbon cuttings for new businesses in Natchez. Our Natchez Renewal is in full swing, and this holiday season promises to be our very best!

I am so grateful to the many merchants and volunteers who have made Christmas in Natchez possible. Our city looks beautiful, from our amazing Christmas tree in the center of town to the hundreds of homes and businesses that are so beautifully decorated. A ride down Broadway offers stunning views of America’s greatest river — and stunning sunsets! And the vintage decorations and lighting displays are beautiful to behold. City parks are aglow as well, and the sweet spirit of the Christmas season is evident at every turn.

God truly has blessed our city. So enjoy the season! We still have many fun-filled days until Christmas. Make the most of them. Because Natchez Deserves More!

To view the Holly Jolly Trolley Route and Schedule, and for tracking instructions, go to https://trolley.onenatchez.com/. For more information on Natchez events during this special season, go to https://visitnatchez.org/events/. You may also visit https://www.christmasinnatchez.org/.

Dan M. Gibson is mayor of Natchez.