GOSHEN, Ind. -- Downtown Goshen announced the return of its Hometown Holiday festival for December First Fridays.

On Dec. 5, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., residents from throughout Elkhart County and beyond come together to celebrate the holiday season.

Family, friends, and neighbors join hands to sing carols with each other along Main Street in Downtown Goshen, and the Hometown Holiday community tree lighting ceremony, including a special performance from Phoenix Performing Arts, takes place at 6:30 p.m. on the corner of Main and West Washington. 

Kids' activities include free pictures with Santa from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fables Books, and participating local retailers highlight gifts under $30 and provide make-a-gift stations to help young gift-givers discover and enjoy the uniqueness and importance of personalized gifts.

Before and after the tree lighting, the annual Holiday Market at the Goshen Theater presents the work of local holiday artisans for viewing and for sale and offers plenty of opportunities for First Fridays revelers and carolers to warm up from the weather.