FOWLER – Community members are invited to a night of festive fun and hometown spirit with the return of a beloved holiday tradition.
On Dec. 3, Downtown Fowler will be overtaken with holiday spirit for the annual Christmas on Merced Street celebration. From 4-8 p.m., the community can enjoy a whole host of activities and vendors before gathering for the lighting of the downtown tree.
“It’s a great family tradition, and it’s been going on for way over 40 years here in the city of Fowler,” said Yvonne Hernandez, recreation supervisor in Fowler. “Each and every year, we do our best to make it an even more enjoyable experience for the families to come out and enjoy.”
On the day of, Merced Street will be packed with numerous food options and goodies to purchase, with applications still open for prospective vendors. Food vendors have until Nov. 21 to apply for a spot at the event, but Hernandez noted that craft vendor applications will be accepted until the Friday before the celebration.
In addition to getting some holiday shopping done, guests can take photos with Santa for $7 from 4-7 p.m., but those with a mischievous side will have the option to take photos with the Grinch as well. Families will also be able to enjoy pony and train rides, with a DJ scoring the night with iconic Christmas tunes.
Though the evening will be filled with community fun, all activities will be put on pause for the ceremonial tree lighting at 6:30 p.m., with the honors being done by Fowler’s “Citizen of the Year,” Darren Spate.
Hernandez expressed excitement for the tree’s new look this year with a fresh set of ornaments, sharing that from what she’s heard, it could potentially make for “the best Christmas tree in the Valley.”
After the lighting, snow machines will sprinkle a gentle snowfall onto guests as the city ushers in the holiday season. All who attend can expect a night of fun, community and winter spectacle.
“We want (attendees) to have a beautiful, magical experience — to take away tradition and think, ‘Man, I want to come back to that event next year,’” Hernandez said.
