Both Marysville and Arlington welcomed the holiday season in grand style on Saturday, Dec. 3, with community-wide celebrations that attracted hundreds of people to each downtown location. Public festivities continue through the end of the month, thanks to efforts by local businesses and civic organizations.

In Arlington, mostly sunny skies attracted families for the Hometown Holidays kickoff. Following the noon parade that included Santa's arrival, free horse-drawn wagon rides and craft tables were popular activities. Strolling carolers helped liven the festive mood, and shoppers enjoyed the unique downtown stores as they played along in the Snowman Scavenger Hunt.

Arlington's Hometown Holidays events wrap up this Saturday, Dec. 17, with shopping specials and other holiday-themed events.

Marysville's Comeford Park came alive after dark Dec. 3 as families gathered for the annual Electric Lights Parade. Whether participating in the parade or watching from the sidelines, the lighted extravaganza was fun for all.

Kids played with bubbles and lighted wands as they waited for Santa's arrival as the grand finale of the parade. Once he stepped down from his ride, the jolly old elf set up shop in the park to hear children's wishes.

The Marysville water tower sports a new light design this year, and the audience seemed to approve as the switch was thrown to light up the night sky over the city park.

Because of the burn ban in effect, parks department officials and volunteers maintained a bed of glowing charcoals in the park's fire pit, rather than a roaring bonfire. It still served the purpose of giving folks a place to warm their hands.

Marysville's Holiday Tour of Lights at Cedarcrest Golf Course, a new attraction this year, continues to offer free family fun (donations are accepted) through Dec. 30. See more on page 13.

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