The Christmas on First Open House returns for its 25^th year this weekend.

On Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 5, from noon to 4 p.m., Christmas on First offers a first chance and sneak peek at holiday gifts at stores on First, Second, and Third avenues with refreshments, door prizes, and a chance at a grand prize basket.

Elves from Wausau West Key Club will also roam the streets 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday as well. New this year, a trolley will also run shoppers to and from the east side of the River, at the 400 Block or Grant Streets to Alexander and Second Avenue, and Clark Street and Second Avenue on the near west side. The trolley is free to ride and will run on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“While it is hard to believe it has been this long, we are looking forward to our 25^th Annual Christmas on First,” says Kari Bender, owner of the Needle Workshop and founder of Christmas on First. “The event has grown into the signature event on the near west side and we look forward to having people stroll the area to see locally owned shops they may not have taken the time to visit before.  We hope people will discover something new that makes them want to return.”

This year’s participating businesses include Blossoms and Bows, Builer’s Cycles & Fitness, Buttermilk Creek, Dime and Dollar Thrift Store, Navieve Fromagerie, Needle Workshop, and River District Antiques. Check the Christmas on First event page on Downtown Wausau River District’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.