Small Business Saturday & Festival of Lights

– Shop Local & Win Big! From 11am to 2pm, stop by Main Street Kent (154 N. Water St.) to pick up a free shopping tote — some with surprise gift cards inside! Enjoy a complimentary hot cocoa bar and photos with the Black Squirrel Elf. Don’t forget to grab your ‘Elf Hits Downtown Kent’ contest card and explore Kent’s unique shops and eateries.

– Catch the Ohio State vs. Michigan game at Water Street Tavern, with doors opening at 11:30am. Secure your game squares in advance at https://square.link/u/GzkcvVNq for a chance to win $250 each quarter and gift cards to downtown businesses. Enjoy $3 drink specials and a full menu featuring fried pickles, patty melts, chicken dinners, and more. View the full menu at https://www.waterstreettavern.com/food

– Holiday Movie Magic! Bundle up for outdoor screenings of Elf and the 1966 animated Grinch on a loop from 4:30–8:30pm under the string lights on Erie Street (between the PARTA deck and Kent State Hotel). A bar and hot chocolate station will keep spirits warm!
– Festival of Lights ~ 5–8:30pm at Hometown Bank Plaza! Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by carriage at 5:30pm on Franklin Ave., joining the Mayor to light up downtown and officially usher in the season. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, children’s books, and letter-writing to Santa at the Gazebo (Main & Franklin). Carriage rides begin after Santa’s arrival, departing from The Loft.