From DOWNTOWN BOWLING GREEN SPECIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
The holidays are almost here, and Downtown Bowling Green is ready to celebrate. The annual “Merry & Bright” season will kickoff on Friday, Nov. 20, bringing back traditions, holiday activities, and reasons to spend time downtown with family and friends.
From the community tree lighting and holiday parade to visits with Santa, carolers, and carriage rides, there is something for all ages. These events provide a chance to slow down, run into familiar faces, and enjoy downtown.
“The holidays are one of my favorite times to be downtown,” said Hallie Williams, executive director of Downtown Bowling Green. “There’s something about seeing Main Street lit up, families out together, and people stopping into their favorite shops that makes this season so special. We hope everyone takes the time to enjoy it.”
Merry & Bright event schedule for 2026:
- Community tree lighting & concert
- Friday, Nov. 20, 6-8:30 p.m.
- Wood County District Public Library
- Chamber of Commerce holiday parade
- Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m., downtown Main Street
- Santa on Main, caroling, & carriage rides
- Saturday, Dec. 5, 2-6 p.m.
- Santa visits and professional photos will take place at The Millie Avenue, 105 S. Main St., Bowling Green
- Roaming carolers and carriage rides will be throughout downtown
- Courthouse concert
- Sunday, Dec. 6, 3-4:30 p.m.
- Wood County Courthouse
Along with these traditions, visitors can enjoy holiday markets, seasonal activities, and festive decorations throughout downtown.
While the events bring people together, Merry & Bright is also a reminder of the impact of local business on the Bowling Green community. The shops, restaurants, and small business owners of downtown are ready to welcome holiday shoppers.
“Before you head online or out of town to finish your Christmas shopping, think about what you can find right here in Bowling Green,” Williams added. “Our downtown businesses have so much to offer, and every purchase makes a difference in your community. Grab dinner, pick up a gift, or make a new family tradition downtown this season. Supporting local doesn’t have to be complicated, and this is a wonderful time of year to do it.”
Merry & Bright is made possible through the support of local businesses, community organizations, sponsors, donors, and volunteers who work together to bring the holiday season to downtown Bowling Green.
For the full schedule of events and updates throughout the season, visit https://downtownbgohio.org/bg-merry-%26-bright.
