By RYAN SKAITH

With temperatures forecast in the upper 40s and sunny skies, its going to be a relatively nice weekend and area residents can take part in several holiday-themed events this Saturday, Dec. 20 in Downtown St. Joseph.

For starters, children can get their pictures taken for free with Santa Claus from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. at Coleman Hawkins Park at Felix Street Square. A free petting zoo will also be setup during that time.

Kids can also bring their letters to Santa and watch the Pony Express Rider head to the North Pole at 4:45 p.m. with all the letters. 

Free carriage rides will once again be offered from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., which is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

You’ll have the opportunity to shop for last minute gifts at the 6th annual Outdoor Christmas Village Pop-Up Shops beginning at 11:00 a.m.

To round out the day, the St. Joseph Symphony will perform a Holiday Cheer concert at the Missouri Theatre at 7:00 p.m. with special guest Anna Mandina.

Along with the way you can also try to find the roaming snowman. 

Several downtown businesses are offering promos and specials, and holiday window displays.