• Matt Knowles

Ferndale at Christmas is a thing to behold. The Victorian Village gets even more charming during the holidays, dressing up with decorations while brass bands and carolers stroll its quaint streets and window displays beckon shoppers. And it all gets underway this weekend with Hospitality Night Open House on Friday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 9 p.m. (free). It's a special evening when Ferndale merchants keep their doors open late and offer warm beverages and treats for your browsing pleasure.

Come back for the annual Portuguese Hall Linguiça & Beans Dinner on Sunday, Dec. 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Portuguese Hall in Ferndale ($12 adults, $6 children ages 6-12). The tasty traditional meal is a fundraiser for the hall's repairs and upkeep and a great way to socialize and warm up before stepping out onto Main Street to watch the Lighting of America's Tallest Living Christmas Tree at 5:30 p.m. (free). The Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department-decked spruce at the end of Main Street lights up the night and music by the Booster Band, Chameleon Singers plus free hot cocoa and homemade cookies add to the holiday cheer. This Ferndale tradition (since 1934) is the perfect small-town holiday opening weekend.