Oxford’s waterfront will glow at sunset on Saturday, Dec. 6, when more than 80 decorated trees are lit along the town’s docks as part of the annual Christmas on the Creek celebration. The dock tree lighting, now one of the event’s most cherished sights, anchors a weekend of music, markets, and family activities. The trees will remain lit through Jan. 10.
More celebrations follow throughout the evening as Santa joins the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry for its first Ferry Lighting with Santa ceremony at 6 p.m. Santa will flip the switch to illuminate the historic Talbot in a bright holiday display, and the ferry will remain lit at the dock all season for waterfront viewing.
“This display brings neighbors, visitors, and our working waterfront together in a meaningful way,” said Monika Mraz, president of the Oxford Business Association. “It’s a warm welcome to the holidays in Oxford.”
Local boatyards are opening their waterfronts this year for viewing gatherings to watch the trees light up. Doc’s Sunset Grille is helping to supply the cheer with refreshments, with guests encouraged to arrive by 4:30 p.m.
“Seeing the shoreline shine this time of year is special for all of us,” said Meghan McDonnell of Cutts & Case Shipyard. “We are proud to be part of a tradition that celebrates community.”
At Campbell’s Boatyard at Jack’s Point, Susan Campbell shared a similar sentiment.
“These lights reflect the spirit of Oxford,” she said. “Everyone comes together, and that sense of connection is what makes the season bright.”
The weekend’s events begin Friday, Dec. 5, with the Oxford Community Center’s final concert in its jazz series, the Dominick Farinacci & Aaron Diehl Holiday Show. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m., with limited seating and advance tickets required.
On Saturday morning, The Church of the Holy Trinity will host its Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring handmade gifts, fresh wreaths, and a holiday luncheon.
A cookie box decorating workshop for children runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Oxford Firehouse. At 2 p.m., guests may take part in the 3rd Annual Cookie Walk before gathering for the dock tree lighting at sunset.
Festivities continue Sunday, Dec. 7, with Breakfast with Santa at the Oxford Firehouse from 8 to 11 a.m. Families can enjoy games and browse handmade decorations and baked goods provided by the Oxford Fire Company Auxiliary.
Throughout December, visitors may also explore the Oxford Museum’s Holiday Train Exhibit, enjoy seasonal menus at local restaurants, and shop the Oxford Holiday Market at the Oxford Community Center from Dec. 12 to 14.
“Christmas on the Creek is one of the most magical times to visit,” Mraz said. “We invite everyone to experience the charm of Oxford during the holidays.”
Christmas on the Creek is organized by the Oxford Business Association. A full schedule is available at portofoxford.com.
