The Talent Company performs a song from its upcoming play “Elf Jr.” at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

The Talent Company performs a song from its upcoming play “Elf Jr.” at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

Tammy Bowers and Damon Pilkins order at Mollie’s Mini Donuts at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

Theo Carr eats a donut at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

2023 Miss Lake Tillery Karie Grace Shields shares a moment with Malayiah Hailey and her mother, Daphne Trent, at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

Makeeba Griffin meets Santa at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)

Kandice Whitmire, Riley Huneycutt and Paislee Hatley from the North Stanly Handbell Choir perform at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1.

Alisa Hylton and John McPherson peruse books on sale with Pat Bramlett at the Snuggs House at the Albemarle Downtown Christmas Dec. 1. (Photo by CHARLES CURCIO/staff)