BEREA, KY – The holiday season officially arrives in Berea on Saturday, November 29, when the Old Town Artisan Village lights up for the annual Mayor’s Merry Mingling and Christmas Tree Lighting.
The beloved community tradition, now in its fifth year, brings families together for an evening of campfires, caroling, hot cocoa, marshmallow roasting, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus—all free and open to the public.
The event runs from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. along North Broadway Street in the heart of the Old Town Artisan Village, and it’s the perfect way to cap off a day of shopping local on Small Business Saturday.
A Tradition That Brings the Community Together
The Mayor’s Merry Mingling has quickly become one of Berea’s most cherished holiday events, drawing families from across the region to kick off the season in true small-town style.
“This is going to be the most memorable conclusion to your favorite shopping day of the year—Shop Small Saturday,” Berea Tourism shared in announcing this year’s event.
The evening centers around the lighting of the community Christmas tree, a moment that signals the start of the holiday season in Berea. But it’s the activities surrounding the tree lighting that make the event so special.
Families gather around crackling campfires to roast marshmallows, sip hot cocoa, and sing Christmas carols together. Kids line up for free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the streets of the Artisan Village fill with the sounds of laughter, music, and holiday cheer.
It’s the kind of old-fashioned celebration that reminds people why they love small-town life—and why Berea has been named one of the best Southern towns to visit during the holidays.
What to Expect This Year
This year’s Mayor’s Merry Mingling promises all the favorite traditions, with plenty of activities to keep families entertained throughout the evening.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
🎄 Christmas Tree Lighting – The highlight of the evening, marking the official start of the holiday season in Berea.
🔥 Campfires & Marshmallow Roasting – Gather around the fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the cozy warmth of community.
☕ Hot Cocoa – Free hot chocolate to keep you warm as you explore the village.
🎶 Christmas Caroling – Join in singing classic holiday songs with neighbors and friends.
🎅 Santa & Mrs. Claus – Free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus for kids of all ages.
The event takes place along North Broadway Street in the Old Town Artisan Village, where many of the local shops and galleries will be open for evening browsing. It’s a walkable, family-friendly area with plenty of charm and holiday spirit.
Make a Day of It: Shop Small Saturday
The Mayor’s Merry Mingling falls on Small Business Saturday, the national day dedicated to supporting local, independently owned businesses—and Berea is the perfect place to celebrate.
The Old Town Artisan Village is home to dozens of working artists, craftspeople, and makers who create everything from handwoven textiles and pottery to jewelry, woodwork, and fine art. Many of the shops offer one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
Start your day exploring the galleries and studios of the Artisan Village, then head over to College Square and Chestnut Street to discover even more local shops, boutiques, and eateries. By the time evening rolls around, you’ll be ready to relax by the fire, sip some cocoa, and watch the tree light up.
Shopping local isn’t just about finding great gifts—it’s about supporting the artists and small business owners who make Berea the vibrant, creative community it is. And on Small Business Saturday, every purchase makes a difference.
Where to Park and How to Get There
The Old Town Artisan Village is located along North Broadway Street in Berea, just north of downtown. Parking is available in the Artisan Village area, and the event is designed to be walkable and family-friendly.
Many of the shops and galleries in the village will remain open during the event, so you can warm up inside, browse the latest creations, and pick up a few last-minute gifts while you’re there.
For those coming from out of town, Berea is easily accessible from Interstate 75 (Exit 76 or 77) and is located about 40 miles south of Lexington.
A Celebration for All Ages
Whether you’re a longtime Berea resident or visiting for the first time, the Mayor’s Merry Mingling is a celebration that welcomes everyone.
It’s a chance to slow down, connect with neighbors, and soak in the magic of the season in one of Kentucky’s most charming towns. And with free activities, free photos with Santa, and free cocoa, it’s an affordable way to make holiday memories with the whole family.
So mark your calendars, plan your Shop Small Saturday shopping route, and get ready to celebrate the season Berea-style.