Christmas begins on Thursday, Dec. 10. Well, actually it begins whenever and wherever you want it to, but in Edgartown the official start is indeed Thursday as the 34th annual Christmas in Edgartown festivities arrive once again and continue through Sunday, Dec. 13.

Businesses in town will offer discounts, and holiday food. The Teddy Bear Suite has already taken up residence at the Harbor View Hotel (last week there was a showing of Paddington in the suite). There will be photos with Santa all weekend at the Kelley House, a dance-o-rama in front of the Vineyard Square Hotel, and the Minnesingers perform on Friday night at the Old Whaling Church just after the lighting of the Edgartown lighthouse, to name just a few of the activities.

The parade takes place on Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m. and rolling through the streets of Edgartown. But, are you sitting down, the chowder contest has moved from the Mini Park to the Kelley House. Change rolls slowly and it can be a hard pill to swallow, but with a fist full of oyster crackers all should be well.

For a full list of events visit edgartownboardoftrade.com.