Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

On Friday, hundreds gathered downtown Cape Girardeau as the 30 foot Christmas tree was lit at Broadway and Fountain Street at 6:20 p.m.—carolers, treats, beverages and a visit from Santa added to the celebration.

The tree will remain lit until the start of the New Year.

Old Town Cape, Inc. will host the 23rd Annual Downtown Holiday Open House on December 5 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Downtown shops will be decorated with holiday merchandise, offer special deals and feature a horse-drawn carriage ride for visitors.

Spectrum Record Lounge in Cape Girardeau celebrated National Record Store Day on Friday by offering a 20% discount on used records — the sale included exclusive titles and drew long lines of eager shoppers.

Owner Travis Tyson said the event showed the value of locally-owned record shops and supported the spirit of small business.

Local leaders and small business owners say spending money at downtown shops today boosts the local economy because funds return to support nonprofits and local events—like Old Town Cape's small business Saturday bingo with 25 participating businesses.

Families can also look forward to the Parade of Lights on Sunday at 5 p.m.

5th Annual Mary Mingle 5k

8 AM – 2 PM — Mary Jane bourbon + smokehouse — Registration required — Participate in a community-driven run and support a good cause.

Toys For Tots 24-Hour Drive

8 AM-8 PM — Schnucks Cape Girardeau — Donations appreciated — Help make a child’s holiday brighter with toys and cash contributions for local families in need.