Special to The Explorer
For the 12th year, the Town of Marana holds its holiday festival and Christmas tree lighting event this Saturday, Dec. 4, in the plaza of the municipal complex.
The event lasts from 4 to 8 p.m. at the complex, located at 11555 West Civic Center Drive.
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive just after 4 p.m. to meet with children and get their wish lists. Local choirs are providing entertainment and holiday cheer throughout the afternoon and evening.
A parade of lights featuring town and resident vehicles takes place near the municipal complex at 6:15 p.m. Openings remain in the parade for any group wishing to participate. For more information, please call 382-1950.
Vendors are selling arts and crafts and food. Marana Parks and Recreation Department employees are providing cookies and hot cocoa for visitors.
Mayor Ed Honea and members of the town council light the Christmas tree at 5:35 p.m. KOLD’s Scott Kilbury and Kayna Whitworth are the emcees.
Miss Arizona Katy Bulkley and Miss Pima County Kyra Batte will be judges for the parade.
Admission is free. Guests are asked to bring a new, unwrapped gift to benefit Toys for Tots.
Marana’s holiday festival
Saturday, Dec. 4, Municipal complex
4 p.m. — Welcome by Kayna Whitworth and Scott Kilbury, Santa and Mrs. Claus due to arrive
4:15 — Arizona Rose Theater performance
4:45 — Thornydale Songbirds
5:15 — Miss Pima County, followed by Miss Arizona
5:35 — Mayor and council light the Christmas tree
5:45 — Tucson Dance Academy performance
6:15 — Twinkle Light Parade
7 — Marana High School Chamber Singers
7:30 — Announcement of parade winners and pre-recorded holiday music.
