Christmas season begins Friday

RITZVILLE – Friday, Dec. 3, marks the start of three weeks of holiday activities here.

The Christmas season will be ushered in with the annual Festival of Lights outdoor market in Pioneer Plaza, on Washington Street between Main and Railroad, on Friday.

The market is slated for 4-7 p.m., officials said.

There will be a number of vendors and food trucks on hand, and Santa is expected to make an appearance to hear Christmas wishes and pose for pictures.

At 5:30 p.m., attention shifts to the front of the library, 302 W. Main Ave., for the Tree Lighting ceremony.

High school musicians will lead the singing of carols.

"This year, we want to get people out and start to live again," organizer DeDe Boyer said.

Festivities continue Saturday, Dec. 4, with the Holiday Bazaar from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ritzville Grade School, 401 E. Sixth Ave.

At 2 p.m., a free children's movie matinee will be shown at the Ritz Theatre, 107 E. Main Ave. The movie this year is "The Grinch."

Following the show, Santa is expected to arrive by fire truck, and make an appearance outside the theater, with treat bags for the kids.

Santa will make his third appearance in the city Dec. 18, this time by helicopter, landing at a school campus at 2 p.m.

Following Santa's landing, an ornament hunt begins at 3:30 p.m. in the city park.

The hunt is similar to an Easter egg hunt, but with winter holiday touches.

There are prizes for the most successful ornament hunters.

At 4:30 p.m., a lighted parade, with a "Hometown Christmas" theme, takes to the streets, including a festive display of floats and holiday lights.

The parade route begins at Gilson Gym and winds down the hill to the downtown business district.