Santa Comes to Town on a New Night

Mark your Calendars as Santa will arrive on a new day this year! Dasher, Santa, and Mrs. Clause will ride into town on his sleigh in the early evening on the first Saturday of December (12-3-11). In past years Santa has arrived on Friday night, but after hearing from disappointed commuting parents who could not arrive in time for the celebration, the decision was made to make the change.

You too can join in the Santa Parade! Line up for the parade is in the Vashon Market parking lot (100th Ave) at 5:30 PM. The parade will begin promptly at 5:45 PM. The Holiday Tree Lighting, where music and magic combine for a delightful kick-off to the evening festivities will be at 6:00 PM near Santa’s Cottage (Village Green). Elf Gretchen will lead the Chautauqua third graders in the traditional singing of "Oh Christmas Tree" which along with magic elf dust is needed to light the town tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus will return to their sleigh in the middle of town so all the kids, young and young at heart, can say hello and get their picture taken with Santa.

Stores will be open until 8 PM on Saturday for their traditional Holiday Open House. Enjoy refreshments and the nostalgic experience of shopping where you will find a warm welcome, a unique experience, genuine appreciation, AND the perfect gift!

New this year will be the Gingerbread House Contest, sponsored by the Vashon Island Chamber of Commerce. Sure to delight, these fun "houses" will depict each business’s unique style. Grab a Gingerbread House Tour Map

(available at the Vashon Island Visitor Center/Chamber of Commerce and participating business) and vote for your favorite! A drawing from the ballot boxes will be held on Sunday. You could win $50 in Gingerbread House Bucks to spend at participating shops. Gingerbread houses will be on display throughout the weekend.

Road closures will be in effect on Saturday, Dec. 3rd from approximately 5 PM to 9 PM.

Detailed information about Vashon Island Winterfest Weekend will be available on our website
www.VashonChamber.com

Happy Holidays and please remember to "Shop Local First". Support those that support you!

Deborah Richards
Vashon Island Chamber of Commerce