COACHELLA Travel through the Candy Cane Forest and around the Gumdrop Mountains as you head to Coachella for a Candy Land Christmas.

The Candy Land Christmas theme celebrates this sweet time of year and ties into the 70th Anniversary of Hasbro’s popular Candy Land board game. The festivities kick off on Wednesday, December 4, at Coachella City Hall, 1515 Sixth St. The City invites all residents to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m., followed by entertainment and free food. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make an appearance to check on the good boys and girls of Coachella; photo opportunities will be available for the whole family.

This is really a great way to gather with family and friends in a celebration for all ages,” Mayor Steven Hernandez said in a news releaas. “We invite people from across the valley to join us and experience the fun and excitement in downtown Coachella.”

The holiday cheer continues on Friday, December 6, with the annual parade. This family-friendly event steps off at Westerfield Way at 6 p.m., heading south on Cesar Chavez Street then east on Sixth Street. The parade wraps up at Veterans Memorial Park, adjacent to City Hall, where entertainment includes carnival rides, food vendors, music and an ice slide.

In keeping with the Candy Land Christmas theme, this year’s parade pays tribute to two local candy shops. Dalia Flores, owner of El Tepayac candy shop and Jose Farias, owner of Mega Fiestas will be co-grand marshals.

“Considering the Candy Land Christmas theme of this year’s parade, it seems appropriate to honor these two local business leaders,” Mayor Pro Tem Emmanuel Martinez said in a prepared statement. “This is a fun way to thank people who put smiles on the faces of kids and adults each and every day.”

Students from all Coachella schools and other community organizations will march in the parade this year. Click here for more information about this event.

 

 

Image Sources

  • Coachella tree lighting: City of Coachella