Everything is coming together quite nicely for the 14th annual City Celebration of Christmas. The date is this Saturday but, as last year, it's a whole lot more than just the parade and tree lighting. A couple years ago a few of us got together and decided wouldn't it be great if we could do everything having to do with Christmas on one day in the city. Since the parade and tree lighting have always been on the first Saturday in December, we decided to stick with that date. That's how Christmas in the City was born. What a day it has become. It's always been about a child born long ago and so our celebration centers around the children--not only the children who come and participate in the days events but the children who will benefit from the Toys for Tots event in our community every year.
The day starts off at Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road, at 8:30 a.m. with RE/MAX Hometown Professionals sponsoring free Breakfast with Santa. Come eat with Santa and his helpers. Get free pictures with Santa and a free gift for each kiddie.
The Portage Parks Department will be having their Kid's Snowball Bash, a children's Christmas party featuring kids crafts, a coloring contest and cookie decorating for all, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will also be a magician, clowns and a inflatable ride to jump until you can't jump anymore.
Now if your tummy is grumbling by this time, you're in luck, the Portage Kiwanis Club will be sponsoring their annual Chili Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The all-you-can-eat chili is $5 person, children 12 and under is $3 and includes a beverage and a dessert. Hot dogs will be sold for $1 a piece. Proceeds will go to benefit Rileys Childrens Hospital, Jacob's Ladder and new dictionaries for all Portage Township third graders.
All throughout the day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., US Marine Corps Toys for Tots and Radio One's Holiday Concert and Toy Drive will be on hand. Music will be by Billy Wayne and Megan Nicole.
Wow, what a great day and admission is just one new unwrapped toy per person to benefit the Toys for Tots for the whole days activities excluding the chili luncheon.
Of course, don't forget the Christmas parade and tree lighting stepping off from Kyle School to City Hall at 4 p.m. Visit with Santa, listen to carolers from the Willowcreek Middle School under the direction of Natalie Franks and have hot cocoa and cookies courtesy of Portage Firefighters Local 3151 Auxiliary.
Don't miss any of this good ole holiday fun! Portage Rocks!
The opinions expressed solely are those of the writer. She can be reached at (219) 764-2187 or robinwilkening@remax.net.
