Partners for Progress and downtown merchants are planning festive displays, special events and extended hours for the Christmas shopping season.

Businesses will be decorated and awards given in a downtown lighting contest. Window displays will be judged tonight in these categories: best tree display, best use of lighting, most festive, people's choice and best restaurant. The winners will be announced at Holidays in the Park on Saturday.

Stores will be open evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 16 and 23. In addition, holiday shoppers may take free horse carriage rides around the downtown area, enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies and talk to Santa, Mrs. Claus and Santa's helpers.

Carriage rides will begin and end at Quality Llama Products, corner of Ash and Park sts., with a stop at Santa's House in the parking lot at Main and Grant sts. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served at Park and Ash sts.

The summer flower baskets will be hung with holiday decorations.