Downtown Columbus merchants will be having a Not so Silent Night celebration on Thursday, Dec. 14th from 4 to 8 p.m..

John Pickett, one of the organizers, says that stores and restaurants will be staying open late and there will be shopping and dining deals all evening.

The event will also include a scavenger hunt and carriage rides.

The event will feature Santa Claus at The Commons and both an ugly Christmas sweater contest and an ugly sweater 5k run.

Pickett said that It is all part of an effort to get residents to shop locally in downtown Columbus.

Last year’s incarnation of the event was a big success, despite poor weather conditions, Pickett said.

Kidscommons is also offering a low-cost option to watch your children while you shop that night.

You can find out more on the Not So Silent Night Facebook page.