December 3, 2005 – Catch The Christmas Spirit this Saturday December 3, 2005 at the Festival of Christmas Traditions in Downtown Vernon. This is more than a Light Up, more than Activities, it is “pure excitement”.

Each block has a theme – from the Festival of Nations, to Nativity, to the North Pole, to Story Land, to Animals. There is lots to see and do for everyone. This year we have added professional ice sculptures, a movie marathon, Art Gallery showings and demonstrations, and a jazz matinee to name a few. There will be horse drawn carriage rides, crafts to make, food, fire pits to roast marshmallows and roasted chestnuts. All of this to the ambience and tunes of Christmas with a full line-up of local talent at the Entertainment stage.

And then….we are hosting the opening ceremonies of the World Cup Cross Country Ski Races. And then… we are having a street party.

“The fact that Greater Vernon is hosting the 2005 World Cup this week definitely sets the stage for the entire community & visitors to celebrate together! Bring all your friends & family!” Terri Jones, Executive Director of the Downtown Vernon Association.

The Festival opening will be at 1:00 pm at the Entertainment stage at 29th Street and 30th Avenue. The kick off will showcase rhythmic gymnasts, local entertainment, and the exciting arrival of Santa & Elves on a Horse Drawn Sleigh (The reindeer are resting up for their big night).

Activities and Entertainment will continue to 4:45 pm when Downtown Vernon will host the 2005 Vernon District Credit Union FIS World Cup Opening Ceremonies for the World Cup Cross Country Ski Races. Enjoy the colorful parade of international flags, special music including the Okanagan Welcome Song, and an abundance of fanfare. From 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 pm the Festival of Christmas Traditions continues. From 8:00 – 11:00 pm dance the night away at the Protocol Technologies World Cup Street Party with amazing bands, food and the ambience of Downtown Vernon in lights.

No need to worry about Transportation at this event, Free Saturday Parking starts in the Downtown with the Festival on December 3rd and will carry through to the end of December.
And for those of you that prefer to ride public transportation there is Free Transit on Saturday, December 3rd for the Event.

*30th Avenue will be closed from 6 am – 8 pm. The 2900 block of 30th Avenue and 29th Street will be closed until midnight.

For more information contact Terri Jones at the Downtown Vernon Association 542-5851.