Christmas Kickoff: Retail businesses open late Friday night to welcome shoppers

The Ritzville Area Chamber of Commerce has a full weekend of events and activities planned in conjunction with other organizations for the official Christmas Kickoff Weekend to herald the season.

At 5:30 p.m. this Friday, Dec. 6, the place to be is at the intersection of Main Avenue and Washington Street for the official lighting of the Community Christmas Tree. Mayor Linda Kadlec will have the honor of lighting the tree.

Caroling at the tree will begin around 5:45 p.m. with the leadership of the Ritzville Community Choir.

After the carols, the event festivities continue and people can warm up...