The holidays are finally here, and what better way to celebrate than taking your family out for a night on the town.

Downtown Escondido has a lot to offer you this holiday season. Enjoy the brisk night air and the warmth of family and friends in Escondido's Downtown. Saturday, December 6th, 13th, and 20th there will be free horse and carriage rides down the historic Grand Avenue, as well as free visits with the big guy himself, Santa.

Get in the holiday spirit with Christmas by Lamplight, a historic holiday experience in Grape Day Park, happening on December 5th, then come back the next night to the California Center for the Arts for a Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland. Of course you can't miss the Annual Jaycee's Christmas Parade which starts at Escondido High School and travels all the way through town ending at Grape Day Park. Then end it all with the annual and high-rated New Year's Eve First Night. This family-oriented New Year's party will be the perfect end to the holidays, and a great beginning to 2009.

While you're in Downtown Escondido, take a stroll around and visit the hometown, owner-operated businesses. Boutiques, spas, salons, art galleries, and restaurants of all varieties span the entire Downtown district offering great holiday deals and friendly faces.

The holiday season can be a rough time for many, so take some time out to have fun and enjoy the season! Visit downtownescondido.com for a full list of events or call the DBA Office at 760.745.8877.