Santa Claus is coming to town next week.
Santa will arrive with Mrs. Claus on his sleigh during the Parade of Lights as part of the City of Castlegar’s Winterfest event on Friday, Dec. 6. The annual event sees hundreds of people gather downtown for music, a parade, local vendors, the lighting of the tree at City Hall and a festive atmosphere.
City Hall is where most of the action will take place, starting at 5 p.m. with a live musical performance by local musician Rhyan Johnstone.
The Parade of Lights will begin at 6 p.m. and the City Hall Christmas tree lighting will happen at 6:30 p.m. After that, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available to chat with the youngsters. Arrow Dance Studio will perform after the tree lighting followed by the Flowin Owen Light Show at 7 p.m.
All of the Winterfest entertainment is free.
Many local vendors will be on site selling a variety of things ranging from crafts to hot chocolate and burgers.
There will be another opportunity to visit with Santa the next morning, Dec. 7, over breakfast at the Castlegar Community Complex. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the complex as there will not be same day tickets available.
In preparation for Winterfest, Columbia Avenue will be closed from 6th Street to 2nd Street. An alternate route through downtown is available.