Area merchants are wishing for a green Christmas this year.

Continuing a tradition of more than 30 years, the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce is hosting Christmas Open House Saturday to get shoppers into the holiday spending spirit.

More than 30 merchants are participating in the event, which will begin Saturday at 9 a.m. and continue throughout the day. Open House will end at 5 p.m.

“Everyone has finger foods and treats there,” Chamber Program Director Katie Nations said. “It’s just a fun little Christmas atmosphere. It’s almost like a Christmas party.”

For Angie Warren, owner of Expectations and Expectations Too, the Christmas Open House is a way to show her Christmas spirit. It’s one of the busiest times of year for the Brookway Boulevard clothing boutiques, and Warren’s favorite.

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s the most fun ever,” Warren said. “Decorating for Christmas is probably one of my favorite things to do.”

It does draw crowds every year — Warren herself is preparing for hundreds of shoppers, and suspects that some may have to park along Brookway Boulevard. It’s a great time to get some Christmas shopping done, but it’s also an opportunity to socialize with friends.

“It’s a very fun, social occasion for women,” Warren said. “They come out in groups, moms and daughters, best friends and relatives. They come out and they shop together.”

There are 33 businesses with the Chamber of Commerce participating, according to Nations. One of the main goals of the open house is to boost the local economy and keep money in Lincoln County.

Warren describes it as the city’s kickoff for Christmas, and the highlight of the year.

“It’s a way for folks to support hometown business,” Warren said. “You’re supporting the people you go to church with. Their kids go to school with your kids, and you support the jobs in our area.”