On Sunday, Dec. 3, Christmas in Clinton will return to town for the 22nd year. The event is organized by the Chamber of Commerce and features a mix of holiday-themed activities aimed at both families and adults and will run from 1 to 8 p.m.

Chamber Executive Director Ken Hartley said that many familiar events will be returning in 2018, such as the Families Helping Families Soup’s On fundraiser, carol singing, and human dog sled races. Most of this year’s events have proven to be popular over the years.

“The only new event this year is the ugly sweater contest,” Hartley said (find a preview of the ugly sweater contest at www.zip06.com).

Hartley, who was named executive director earlier in 2017, said the planning for the event began back in August. Hartley said his favorite thing about the event is “seeing people enjoying themselves downtown.”

“You hear people singing ‘Here comes Santa Claus’ and then there he is!” Hartley said.

The event, which runs later than in year’s past, has always been well-attended by locals. This year, organizers are also working to draw some of the shoppers visiting the Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets, as well. Hartley said that the town’s Economic Development Commission (EDC) is spearheading efforts to get shoppers come to town, in part through placing ads directing shoppers to events downtown at the outlets.

“I think this is the first year we had signs up,” EDC Chairman John Allen said.

For a complete schedule of events and locations, check out https://christmasinclinton.com.