Not So Silent Night celebrates downtown shopping today

It will be a not so silent night in downtown Columbus tonight as retailers encourage you to shop locally.

Organizers say the event is a celebration of holiday cheer and community spirit. It will include a winter market with local vendors and seasonal treats. You can also take a sleigh ride at Centra Credit Union and visit with Santa and reindeer at the Bartholomew County Historical Society. And you can take part in the elf scavenger hunt with the local merchants.

There will be a 50/50 Art Show featuring local artists at the 411 Gallery and live music and other entertainment downtown.

Kidscommons will be hosting half price admission and special programs.

For every $10 you spend downtown you will be entered into drawings for gift certificates to local merchants.

The event is organized by downtown Columbus merchants and the Office of Downtown Development.

The Not So Silent Night celebration is going on from 4 to 8 p.m. this evening.