Local residents can be treated to a special holiday experiencethis Friday in the downtown area.

Bobby Self, of Columbia, will begin giving horse-drawn carriagerides through Brookhaven’s historic Victorian District between6-6:30 p.m. Friday, until the last customer has ridden.

“It’s a good wholesome activity that both the kids and adultscan enjoy. It’s entertainment with a little nostalgia,” saidChamber of Commerce Executive Vice-President Chandler Russ.

The rides will start behind the Chamber of Commerce building, atthe corner of Whitworth Avenue and West Chickasaw Street, andfollow a route along South Jackson Street, Natchez Avenue andChurch Street.

The cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children (12 andunder).

Bobby Self Carriage Service, which has been providing ridesthroughout the state for three years, is no stranger to theBrookhaven area.

“We just love to go to Brookhaven. We have the best time there,”said Ann Smith, who works with Bobby Self.

Horse-drawn carriage rides were offered at the Tour of Homes andthe Ole Brook Festival.

“I know everybody that’s done it has really enjoyed it,” saidRuss.

Self, who learned to drive a horse and buggy with hisgrandparents when he was a child, offers his services in severalcities across the state. The rides are especially popular duringthis time of the year because of the Christmas lights ondisplay.

“We just want to make this a special Christmas for people,” saidSmith.

The majority of the houses in the Victorian district are adornedwith Christmas decorations and lights.

For more information about Friday’s carriage rides, call thechamber at 833-1411.