Join DeKalb as it gets into the Christmas spirit.

Students and DeKalb residents don’t have too look far to take part in Christmas activities. Many local businesses and landmarks have filled their calendars with winter fun and festivities.

Thursday: Santa Claus Comes To Town

6 p.m.: Cookies, cocoa & caroling in the lobby of the Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St.

7 p.m.: Santa’s arrival at the Egyptian Theatre.

8 p.m.: Santa rides into Van Buren Plaza for photos and fun.

Local businesses will stay open late to accommodate those looking for a fun-filled shopping experience. See Page 5 for more details.

Dec. 7: Moonlight Shopping Party at Moxie, 230 E. Lincoln Highway

6 to 9 p.m.: Join Moxie for a late-night event filled with wine, food and fabulous shopping. Moxie’s most popular event of the year is great for those looking for the perfect gift or for those just looking to have a good time.

Dec. 7 through 9: Ellwood House Holiday Open House, 509 N. First St.

7 to 9 p.m. Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Refreshments and music will be offered against the backdrop of the gorgeously decorated Ellwood House. Tickets are $10 for adults, $3 for ages 6 to 17 and free for children 5 and younger.

Dec. 8: All Day Event, Cracker Jax, 118 N. Third St.

Refreshments and drawings for free Cracker Jax gift certificates will be offered all day.

Dec. 7 through 9: The Nutcracker, Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St.

The Beth Fowler Dance Company presents its annual production of the beloved ballet at 7 p.m. on Dec. 7, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 8 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 9.

Dec. 6 though 9: A Christmas Carol, Stage Coach Theatre, 126 S. Fifth St.

The Stage Coach Players will perform its version of Charles Dickens’ classic play at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 8 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 9.

Saturdays in December: Horse-drawn Carriage Rides from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St.

Visits with Santa from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Van Buren Plaza on the corner of Second and Locust streets

For more information and other fun events, visit www.renewdekalb.com.