The Natick Center Cultural District (NCCD) in cooperation with local merchants will again host holiday shopping events. December 1-15: Holiday Window Contest.

 Most downtown shops are participating with wonderfully decorated windows. Vote your favorite online at natickcenter.org. Be sure to check NCCD social media sites for updates. December 12, 12 to 7 p.m.: December Holiday Market. Shop the downtown, outdoors with holiday lights and a festive atmosphere, for all your holiday needs.

 “Events like the Window Contest and the Holiday Market have always helped bring people into downtown Natick for shopping, dining, and entertainment,” said Kristin Sundin Brandt, new NCCD board member and president of the downtown firms, Sundin Associates and Sundin Sports Marketing. “Given the restrictions we are all experiencing during the pandemic, these events take on greater importance as our neighbors look not just for a safe way to celebrate the holidays but also to support local businesses by doing their holiday shopping and dining in the downtown area.” Downtown activities have looked a bit different this year due to Covid-19. “We are providing more outdoor shopping experiences and events,” Athena Pandolf, NCCD’s executive director, said. “We have had two sidewalk sales and offered outdoor dining. On Washington Street, we created a new area for outdoor dining while infusing public art. Now we ask that everyone wear a mask and keep six feet apart.”