With Thanksgiving landing on the final Thursday in November, the Christmas shopping season will feel a bit shorter.

Therefore, to assist shoppers, the Vicksburg Downtown Holiday Open House will be held Sunday from 1-5 p.m., two weeks earlier than in years past, Peterson’s owner Bobbie Marascalco said.

Enjoyed by shoppers and merchants alike, the open house has become an annual event, Marascalco said, who said the event showcases the downtown merchants’ Christmas decorations as well as their wares.

“I just unloaded my 53rd box of Melissa and Doug toys,” she said, as she prepared for the open house.

Norma Massey, who is the owner of Frederick’s Boutique, a children’s clothing and shoe store, said she always enjoys the annual open house.

“The streets are decorated, the windows are decorated and it’s kind of a party atmosphere,” Massey said. “Merchants have refreshments out and there is holiday music playing, so it’s kind of the kickoff to getting in the Christmas spirit. I love it.

Massey said the event serves as a community gathering to kick off the holidays.

Cinnamon Tree owner Karen Ruggles agreed with Massey.

“The open house brings a lot of people together and is good for the community,” Ruggles said, while also helping patrons with their Christmas shopping.

Ruggles said she also thinks the Downtown Holiday Open House encourages people to shop local.

“I think a lot of people like to come knowing that friends and relatives are going. It’s just a way of getting together,” she said.

In addition to early Christmas shopping, the holiday open house will offer live music and patrons will have the opportunity to register for the “Gifts Under the Tree” raffle.

The raffle will run from Sunday through Dec. 17, and the winner of the drawing will receive gifts donated by the downtown merchants.

With a mild forecast predicted, Marascalco said, she encouraged everyone to come out, shop and enjoy the spirit of the season.

For more information call 601-634-4527 or visit www.downtownvicksburg.org.