Now through Friday, Dec. 19
■ Columbus Christmas Window Decorating Contest: Downtown Columbus visitors may vote for their favorite storefront in the Christmas Window Decorating Contest, featuring 26 decorated businesses. Ballots are available at participating businesses and may be returned to the Main Street Columbus office at 107 Fifth St. N. during business hours.

Saturday, Dec. 13
■ Breakfast with Santa: Kountry Kitchen will host a free “Breakfast with Santa” event from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at 301 Tuscaloosa Road in Columbus. Families can enjoy free pancakes and take photos with Santa. Guests are encouraged to bring a toy for the event’s toy drive, “Bring a Toy, Spread the Joy.”
■ “Drive to Give” Toy Drive: Carl Hogan Toyota will host its toy drive from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3907 Highway 45 North. The event, which includes a live broadcast from 99.9 The Fox, collects new, unwrapped toys for children in the community. It is free to attend and open to the public.

Sunday, Dec. 14
■ Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Starkville Strong will host a special holiday edition of its Neighbors Helping Neighbors program, offering perishable and nonperishable food, hygiene items, toys, clothing, household goods and more to neighbors in need. Sign-in begins at 12:30 p.m., and volunteers arrive at 1 p.m. Ready-to-eat meals from Second Servings will be available. The event takes place across from Habitat ReStore. Donations of holiday-themed food, nonperishables and stocking-stuffer items may be delivered to Dunkington, 109 S. Lafayette St. Learn more or sign up to donate or volunteer at starkvillestrong.info.
■ Christmas Meet and Greet Brunch: Lion Hills Conference Center, 2331 Military Road, will host a brunch with Santa Claus with seatings at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.
■ Holiday Shopping at Jamison Pastures: Jamison Pastures, 781 Wolfe Road, will host a holiday shopping event from noon to 6 p.m.
■ Elm Lake Golf Cart Christmas Parade: The Elm Lake community will host a golf cart parade beginning at 4 p.m.
■ Jingle Jam Christmas Celebration: Mt. Vernon Church will host a family-friendly Christmas event, “Jingle Jam,” at 200 Mt. Vernon Road in Columbus, with performances at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Attendees should arrive at least 30 minutes early to reserve seats. The celebration will include music, games, and a message about the meaning of Christmas.

Monday, Dec. 15
■ Starkville Community Theatre Holiday Meeting and Social: SCT will host a brief year-end meeting followed by a holiday social at 6 p.m. at The Playhouse, 108 E. Main St. Attendees are encouraged to bring sweet or savory dishes or party supplies; BYOB. The event is free and open to SCT volunteers and supporters.

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2026
■ Inaugural Christmas Expo: The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Golden Triangle will host its inaugural Christmas Expo at 6 p.m. at the Columbus Unit, 1815 14th Ave. N. The event will showcase the talents and creative work of local youth and teens for community partners, sponsors, donors and families. The event is free and open to the public.

Wednesday, Dec. 17
■ Annual Clothing Drive: The Assembly Columbus, 2201 Military Road, will host its annual clothing drive from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The sanctuary will be filled with children’s clothing, with adult items available as well. Free clothing will be offered to individuals and families in need. The event is free and open to the public.

Friday, Dec. 19, 2025
■ Self-Awareness Workshop: Perspective Counseling Services, PLLC, will host a self-awareness workshop from 10 a.m. to noon at 2494 Churchill Road in West Point. The session will be led by licensed professional counselor Natalie White, LPC-S, and will focus on personal growth and self-awareness. Registration is $10. To register, email [email protected].

Saturday, Dec. 20
■ Festival of the Fae: Yule Market: Step into a winter wonderland in Columbus for a one-day celebration of holiday magic. The market features artisan vendors, whimsical experiences, hot cocoa and a visit from Santa for children. Guests are encouraged to bring toys for the event’s donation drive supporting local families. Admission is $5 for ages 15 and up.

Sunday, Dec. 21
■ Revive Church Christmas Party: Revive Church will hold its Christmas Party at Overview Place, 70 Overview Drive, Columbus, at 5 p.m. Attendees are invited to enter the annual chili cook-off and to bring a $10 gift for a game. The event is open to the public.

Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
■ First Day Hike: Kick off the new year with a self-guided 5-mile hike at Lake Lowndes State Park in Columbus. Meet at the Equestrian Trail Parking Lot (3319 Lake Lowndes Road) from 9 to 11 a.m. Trail maps are available at the Gate House and Honor Box. The event is included with park admission.