Holiday season kicks off Friday night
Marion will kickoff the holiday season at 5 p.m. Friday when Santa arrives via firetruck at his house between Duckwalls and Suffield's. He will be available to visit with children until 8 p.m.
At 6:30 p.m., a lucky shopper will be eligible to win the first $100 prize from the Marion County Record "Christmas in Marion" promotion. The winning ticket will be drawn from those collected Friday at participating businesses.
The drawing will be held at Santa's house.
Following the drawing, Mrs. Claus and elves will read stories and do activities with youngsters from 6:30 to 7 p.m. at Marion City Library.
Stores will be open until 8 p.m.
Local artists' works will be on display in participating businesses.
Santa will arrive by fire truck at 2 p.m. Saturday at The Daily Grind. He will visit with children until 4 p.m.
Marion County Sheriff Lee Becker will offer photos with Santa.
Activities during the weekend will conclude with Christmas Home Tours from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The tours are sponsored by Marion City Library and are $5 each. Tickets are available at the library or homes the day of the tours.
The annual Christmas tree lighting in Central Park is set for 6 p.m. Sunday.
Marion High School brass ensemble will provide Christmas music as people arrive. The Christmas story will be told and everyone is invited to sing at the manger before the tree is lighted.
Following the festivities, hot cocoa will be served by 20th Century Club and the MHS brass ensemble will play Christmas music.
