NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- Downtown New Haven is beginning to look a little like Christmas.

On Monday, inside of the Shubert Theater, launched its 2009 holiday campaign.

The push is for people to spend part of their holiday downtown shopping, eating or just strolling through the green.

People can experience live models on Chapel Street every Thursday, Friday and Saturday in December. There will also be horse and carraige rides and visits from Santa.

New Haven lights its holiday tree on the green next week, which will kick off the season. City officials are trying to lure potential spenders to the more than 50 shops and countless restaurants.