‘Tis the season for lots of fun activities for residents in and around the Riverbank area, with the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend in the rearview and the Christmas and New Year holidays ahead.
Probably the biggest and most looked forward to event on the schedule is the 55th Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting in downtown Riverbank next weekend. It also includes a Christmas Craft Faire, as well.
The crafts booths will be on Third Street, near City Hall North, beginning at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, and continuing until 7 p.m.
At 5 p.m., the city’s festive Christmas Parade begins, coming down Santa Fe Street, from the Community Center, through downtown, then back on Stanislaus Street. Following the parade, the Christmas Tree will be lit, by Santa himself. After that, he’ll be posing for photos and visiting with area youngsters.
Toy Distribution
A special toy distribution for Riverbank families is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 21. It will be held in two sessions, and include breakfast, featuring hot cocoa, with Santa.
The first session is set for 8:30 to 10 a.m., with the second from 10:30 a.m. to noon, both being hosted at the Riverbank Community Center, 3600 Santa Fe. The event will include photos with Santa along with Christmas music and caroling, as well as the actual gift distribution.
The program is for children up to age 12 and families must bring proof of address to show they are Riverbank residents.
Parents or guardians can register for the gift distribution by calling Casa del Rio, 209-869-0468.
In addition to the City of Riverbank, sponsors include Save Mart, Costco, Cost Less Food Company, the Riverbank Unified School District, the River Pentecostal Church and Central Valley Community Resources.
Home Decorating Contest
The entry deadline for a festive holiday home decorating contest is Friday, Dec.13, with judging taking place on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Judging will be based on curbside appeal only, according to officials.
The winners will be announced by Saturday, Dec. 21.
Entry forms can be turned in by email to alemonds@riverbank.org or in person at the Riverbank Parks and Recreation office, 6707 Third St., Suite C.
