• It's time to light the lights.* Get ready to kick off the season in dazzling style as downtown is transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland during the 33rd Annual Parade of Lights. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a longtime attendee, this sparkling spectacle promises heartwarming memories and holiday cheer for all ages. The Parade begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and travels south along Phillips Avenue from 13th Street to 5th Street. Details here. 
• Get hands-on with ornaments.* Learn to craft your own keepsake leather ornament at an upcoming workshop at Terra Shepherd Boutique. All materials are included, and you'll learn step-by-step how to make three gingerbread house-style ornaments out of leather. Get your tickets here.
• Check out some trees. There are a handful of events happening this week where you can see a bunch of pretty trees, including the inaugural Festival of Trees in Garretson, the Feztival (get it) of Trees at the El Riad Shrine and Tidings and Tinsel at the Washington Pavilion.
• BINGO for a cause. Remedy Brewing Company is hosting a Thanksgiving Eve party Wednesday evening including games, prizes, and a six-foot singing turkey. The event is also a food drive, and everyone who brings a canned food item will get a little thank-you gift, as well. Details here.
• Shop small. Tons of local retailers have special Black Friday and/or Small Business Saturday promos and in-store fun happening this weekend. I'm certain I missed a bunch, but there are for-sure fun things going down at Full Circle Book Co-Op, SuFu Creative, the Steel District, Gist, Shop Dog Boutique, Terra Shepherd, Seasoned Style, Total Drag, Midnight Spark, Love Marlow, Ambiance Salon, AMC Collective, 605 Running Co, Down Home and, like I said, many, many more.

*Denotes paid partnership