LAKE COUNTY — The 14th annual Kelseyville”s Christmas in the Country and Merchant Open House and Parade of Lights takes place this evening from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Main Street.
Mary Morse, president of the Kelseyville Business Association, said, “It”s a really special event. For most people, it takes you back to simpler times. We get thousands of people who attend. When you”re in the crowd, and you look at the faces and hear the people, it”s a Norman Rockwell moment.”
According to Morse, this old-fashioned holiday evening has become the perfect way to begin the Christmas season. “At 5:30 p.m. our Main Street Merchants open their doors to all so you can leisurely walk through town and have free cocoa, cider, cookies and goodies, and take a free ride on 11 Roses Ranch mule-drawn carriage. All the while Christmas music, bayberry and pine mingle in the crisp winter air,” Morse said.
Kelseyville Presbyterian Church offers their now-famous chowder and chili dinner for a small fee to warm you and your family, Morse said. Dinner is $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under. Or come have coffee and desert for $2. Church representatives said the funds will go to pay for desperately needed new heating in the church. Chrismas music will be playing for all to enjoy. For more information, please call 279-1104.
“If you are looking for something to eat as you stroll through town, stop by St. Peter”s Catholic Church for hot dogs and beans or John”s Market for their delicious barbecue,” Morse said.
Christmas lights and decorations will illuminate the town, she added. Stroll down to the new Kelseyville Pharmacy at the north end of Main Street to see lots of decorated trees and “delightful” ornaments and Christmas items. “At Patties Petals across the street you can buy your Christmas poinsettias and enjoy the holiday atmosphere,” Morse said.
At 6:30 p.m. be prepared for the “biggest and best Parade of Lights in Lake County.” Watch Santa start the parade in grand fashion as our dazzling parade delights all ages. Last year, the parade boasted 95 entries. This year, just as many if not more are expected.
Follow the last parade entry down to the Kelseyville Firehouse for the town tree lighting at 7 p.m. Then Santa will be across the street at Westamerica Bank for children to visit with Santa or have their photos taken. Westamerica Bank will also feature Carolyn Morris”s artwork from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
“Carolyn has been gracious to allow us to use her ?Kelseyville Light Parade” painting for our holiday posters and she will have prints for sale?They make wonderful gifts. You are invited to stay on Main Street and visit some more with the merchants while meeting old friends and making new ones,” Morse said.
Kelseyville Methodist Church, across from The Sawshop Gallery Bistro will have cookies and treats for everyone and they will be hosting their annual canned food drive. Those who wish to, please bring canned goods or make a donation for their cause. The food goes to Kelseyville families who need help during the holidays.
Last but not least the Kelseyville Senior Center, located one block down from Third Street, next to Studebaker”s Coffee house, will have a “Joyous Christmas Fair” with hand-made crafts. Peruse homemade candy, artwork, stocking stuffers and much, much more. They will be open from 5-8:30 p.m. and also on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Be sure to stop in and say hello,” Morse said.
Morse said her family stumbled upon the first event 14 years ago. “I was just taken aback; the merchants opened their doors and their hearts. You can experience the whole evening and not spend a nickel.”
“We hope to see you all. Don”t forget your umbrellas if it rains. It looks like the rain will be past us, and warm coats and mittens, and enjoy the simplicity of Christmas, the way we remember it from many years past,” Morse said.
Contact Elizabeth Wilson at ewilson@record-bee.com
