The Kirkland community is invited to kick off the holidays with a day of shopping local, evening performances, kids’ activities, food, seasonal surprises, a tree-lighting ceremony and Santa’s arrival.

Small Business Saturday and Kirkland Winterfest is set for Nov. 25 in downtown.

The former will run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout Kirkland, while the latter will run from 2 to 6 p.m. at Peter Kirk Park at 202 3rd St. in Kirkland.

At 3 p.m., Santa will be on hand while families can enjoy the sounds of Geoffrey Castle and holiday productions by Studio East and Lake Washington High School, in Peter Kirk Park. The city council will be pouring hot chocolate and coffee and the Holiday tree will come to life in lights at 5 p.m. on the corner of 3rd St. and Main St.

Parking is available at the city lots. There is additional parking at City Hall or in the Wester Lot along 3rd Ave. just south of City Hall.

Small Business Saturday and Shop Small are efforts from American Express to promote shopping and dining at locally-owned, independent, small businesses in neighborhood business districts during the holiday season. Participants can visit more than 60 independently-owned boutiques that will feature day-of promotions. The Shop Small campaign will last through Dec. 24.

More information on Kirkland shopping can be found at www.explorekirkland.com.

The events are a partnership among Kirkland Downtown Association, Explore Kirkland and participating Kirkland businesses.

For more information about the events visit KirklandDowntown.org