LOCK HAVEN — Local businesses will share the spotlight with Santa and his reindeer on Saturday as Haven Holidays returns to downtown Lock Haven.

Organized by Downtown Lock Haven, the annual event, which coincides with Small Business Saturday, aims to bring holiday cheer to Main Street and encourage holiday shoppers to spend locally.

The cornerstone of the event is the Haven Holiday Market, where local businesses will showcase holiday gifts, stocking stuffers and special promotions for those hoping to wrap up their Christmas shopping.

“Small Business Saturdays in Lock Haven are crucial for our local businesses, who thrive on the support of the community they call home,” said DLH Board President Laura Jameson. “Every dollar you spend here in Lock Haven supports those who own and work at these stores and, in turn, is filtered right back into the Clinton County community.”

To sweeten the deal, DLH and volunteers will hold a special gift-wrapping event at 205 E. Main St. from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those who want to avoid the hassle of wrapping their local purchases can show a receipt from any local business to have their gifts wrapped free of charge.

Downtown has also welcomed Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their reindeer to Haven Holidays. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Santa Hut on Gingerbread Lane, better known as Fallon Alley, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday for photos and to hear children’s Christmas lists. Free pictures will be offered courtesy of AP Photos, though donations are encouraged.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus will return to the Santa Claus Hut on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Dec. 20 for additional opportunities to meet visitors.

A few of Santa’s reindeer will also be in town Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for photos in the East Main Street parking lot.

To help visitors stay warm on what’s expected to be a chilly day, kettle corn and hot chocolate will be available for purchase. Shoppers strolling through the gingerbread-themed downtown will also be treated to holiday music, adding to the festive atmosphere.

And be sure to stick around for the evening holiday parade on Main Street, which will begin at 6 p.m.

Afterward, Lafayette Lodge #199 F&AM — Lock Haven will host a tree lighting ceremony in Triangle Park. Lodge members have been hard at work preparing the tree for the event, and will also be providing hot chocolate during the parade.

To keep up with all things Haven Holidays and Small Business Saturdays — including weekly deals from local businesses — be sure to follow Downtown Lock Haven, Inc. on Facebook or visit their website, www.lockhaven.org.