Holiday dinners to prepare, gifts to buy, cards to send — 'tis the season many are overwhelmed by obligations.

For the second year, Shorewood is offering a host of events aimed at relieving some of the stress of the holiday season. Stop, Shop & Restore — a holiday event hosted by the Shorewood Business Improvement District — kicks off Saturday, running 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A horse-drawn carriage will ride along a shopping route, from noon to 4 p.m., filled with special events — even the big man himself, Santa Claus, will make an appearance at Garden Room from noon at 2 p.m. 

Here's a sampling of the events planned for Saturday:

• Free hand, foot and chair massages will be offered at various Shorewood stores
• Seasonal nutrition and stress-relieving tips from local therapists
• Complimentary salon services — stop in and get a free holiday quick style or make-up tips for that upcoming holiday party
• Relaxing tea sampling, cooking demonstrations, beer and wine tastings
• Complimentary homemade holiday cookies, hot cocoa and cider
• Classical holiday music including strolling carolers
• Free gift-wrapping station at Big Bay Brewing

“This event showcases best of Shorewood retail including our wonderful assortment of salons and healthcare professionals,” said Jim Plaisted, BID executive director. “Find a friend and head over to Shorewood for a day of holiday shopping, free massages and other relaxing treatments.”

For a full list of events, visit the BID's website. The events are sponsored in part by Shorewood's PNC Bank. 

The first 100 shoppers who turn in $150 in Dec. 8 receipts from participating Shorewood businesses will receive a $25 gift certificate redeemable anywhere in the Shorewood business district.

The events will follow Shorewood's first-ever tree lighting on Friday at 7 p.m. on The Cornerstone patio, between North Star American Bistro and Thief Wine.