Downtown Milford's holiday season opens Nov. 27 and 28 with free rides, a tree lighting and a food drive for local students.

The Historic Milford Association's annual Hometown for the Holidays celebration spans the day after Thanksgiving and Small Business Saturday, according to the Clermont Guardian. Lovins Insurance is the presenting sponsor.

The two-day lineup starts at noon both days. Free carriage rides, courtesy of the Wyler Family Foundation, run from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28. The Milford Community Fire Department will offer free antique fire engine rides on the same schedule, according to the association.

Children can sit with Santa Claus for free photos at Kirk & Co. Jewelers from noon to 5:30 p.m. both days. Strolling carolers will perform throughout the downtown district.

That's all free.

The city of Milford will hold its annual holiday tree lighting at 7 p.m. Nov. 27 at Five Points Landing Park, 527 Lila Ave. The CinCity Shakers Dance Troupe will perform before Santa helps light the tree.

Saturday's schedule shifts to Small Business Saturday, encouraging shoppers to visit downtown merchants. The district includes a brewery, a distillery and a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), according to the association's website.

Food drive for students

The association and participating merchants are also partnering to collect food donations supporting Fuel for Flight’s weekend meal bags. Designated donation locations will be set up during the two-day event, according to the association, though specific drop-off spots had not been announced as of Nov. 2.

Fuel For Flight continues the work of Feed Our Flock, a former nonprofit that helped area families. Retired teacher Anne Kuhn launched the program in partnership with Milford First United Methodist Church, Fox 19 reported in June.

Kenneth Stewart, lead pastor of Milford First United Methodist Church, told Fox 19 that Kuhn approached him about the need. Eligible students who enroll receive a bag of nonperishable food at the end of each week, covering two breakfasts, two lunches and snacks for the weekend, according to a Milford Schools announcement.

The association noted that dates and hours for all activities are subject to change.

What to know

  • What: Hometown for the Holidays
  • When: Nov. 27-28, activities begin at noon
  • Where: Historic downtown Milford
  • Tree lighting: 7 p.m. Nov. 27, Five Points Landing Park, 527 Lila Ave.
  • Cost: Free rides, free Santa photos
  • Food drive: Fuel For Flight donations accepted at designated locations both days