The official kick-off to the Christmas season kicks off in Okotoks Friday night.

Light Up Okotoks is expected to have the downtown core filled to capacity with people checking out local businesses to begin their holiday shopping along with ample amounts of hot chocolate and goodies around every corner.

Cottonwood Dental will be busy as they are located right at the beginning of Olde Town Okotoks and Dr. Jennifer Ficzycz says their fire pit will be going and yes there will be hot chocolate served at the office.

"We are right in the epicentre of where the action is because we're right beside the tree that's going to be lit up," she says. "So we're pretty excited to bring some lovely helium balloons we're going to be blowing them up in front of our office and what kid doesn't love a helium balloon."

Also involved with winter activities is Home Ground Coffee & Roasting House will also be keeping patrons warm throughout the night.

Owner Heather Van Aalst says it's one of the busiest time frames of the year for her staff.

"We'll have a  nice fire pit out out on the front patio so you can come and warm-up. Hopefully the fireplace will be running inside too to keep us warm and we're working on lots of baked goodies we're working on for tonight."

Local businesses will be open late for those getting a head start on Christmas shopping with numerous places having discounts.

For a full list of businesses open click here.

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