Experience the magic of winter in Sierra Vista's Veterans Memorial Park, starting Dec. 2 with the annual tree lighting, performance by the Sierra Vista Community Orchestra, holiday market, and visit from Santa Claus, then keep the joy going on Dec. 3 with the annual Christmas Light Parade--plus ice skating all month long!

On Dec. 2, the band performs holiday favorites starting at 5 p.m., followed by the tree lighting ceremony at 5:30, then a visit from St. Nick, who will be ready to hear the holiday wishes from boys and girls and take their letters to Santa. Children's activities will remain open until the event bundles up for the night at 9 p.m.

On Saturday, Dec. 3, Desert Swing Band will perform a Christmas concert at noon. The park entrances will be closed to vehicle traffic from 5-7:30 p.m., and children's activities will temporarily close for the Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Light Parade, which will encircle the park. After the parade ends, the festivities in the park will continue until 9 p.m.

On both Friday and Saturday, the Holiday Market will be open, from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., featuring tasty treats, delightful handicrafts, and gifts for the hard-to-shop-for. 

From Dec. 2 through Jan. 2, a 2,600-square-foot ice skating rink--with real ice--will be open for skating! The rink can accommodate 90 people at one time, so reserve your spot by calling 520-417-6980. Walk-up skaters can join in if space is available. Please note that the rink will be closed on Christmas Day.

Skating sessions are $10 for one hour and include skate rental (sorry, no discount if you bring your own skates; you must wear socks). This is a "rain or shine" event, with limited ticket availability; no refunds will be given for any reason. Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and a skate fitting.

The event is made possible by the City of Sierra Vista and local sponsors, including:

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