Merchants are ready to usher in the holiday shopping season this weekend at the Downtown Open House in Troy.

“It’s time for shopping and Santa in Downtown Troy,” said Leigh Anne Windham, special projects coordinator for the City of Troy. “We’re so excited about Downtown Open House weekend and hope everyone will come out and enjoy shopping for Christmas gifts.”

The open house takes place both Saturday and Sunday, and in addition to sales and refreshments, patrons can enjoy pictures with Santa from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and horse and buggy rides with Santa from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

And the more you shop, the better your chances for winning the $500 Downtown Dollars giveaway each day. Patrons must make three purchases ($25 at shops or $10 at restaurants) to be eligible to enter the drawing.

“More than 15 merchants are participating,” Windham said. “We’re giving away $500 each day.”