WORCESTER, Mass. - The Worcester Canal District is welcoming people to the neighborhood Saturday for its annual Holiday Stroll. 

It's a self-guided tour around the area, exploring local businesses and all they have to offer. Many stores and restaurants are offering special deals and discounts to people who participate.

Canal District Alliance president Amy Chase, who also owns Crompton Collective and the Haberdash, said the stroll will hopefully encourage people to shop and eat local, especially during the holidays. 

"Queen's Cups is doing a DIY cupcake bar, Crompton Collective is doing an all female market, a craft market," Chase said. "It's just a great day to come out and explore, walk around the neighborhood. Hopefully people will come in, pick up a map or find the map online and just check out new places they haven't been to before. You know, if you've been wanted to go to Seed to Stem forever, it's and excuse to tell your friends, 'hey meet me at BirchTree and we will get coffee.'"

The event is paired with the Kelley Square tree lighting, which is scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday evening. The city is also offering $1 parking Saturday at the Union Station garage and the Green Street, Water Street and Millbury Street parking lots.