Annual Christmas in the Park set for December 4. Popular free event now in its seventh year.
The most magical of seasons in just around the corner and the City of Murphy is getting ready for its arrival by presenting the seventh annual Christmas in the Park, says Recreation Specialist Kayla McFarland.
“Most everyone has special memories of the Christmas season,” she said. “And, for many people in Murphy, Christmas in the Park is near the top. Families have been making memories at this event for so long that it has become a tradition for many of them.”
Christmas in the Park is set for Thursday, Dec. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Murphy Municipal Complex, 206 North Murphy Road. The event is free and open to the public.
“The event is such a hit for visitors that we sometimes forget how much fun it is for the performers, vendors, and even the City staff,” she added. “Children’s choirs will soon begin rehearsing for the event, arts and craft vendors are busy putting together unique gift ideas and the City staff will soon begin transforming the complex grounds into a winter wonderland.”
Among the activities this year will be the ever-popular photos with Santa. Each family gets one sitting with Santa, and a free copy of the photo. Live reindeer will accompany the Jolly Old Elf, and to encourage Santa to come to homes, a free reindeer food bar will be available for visitors.
Marshmallow roasting at various fire pits will be offered, and letters can be written to Santa and veterans, recuperating at area hospitals.
School choirs will fill the night air with the unmistakable sounds of Christmas. A DJ will fill in between acts with music and lively chatter. The Rad Hatter returns to Christmas in the Park, helping kids of all ages create one-of-a-kind hats out of paper sacks. The “on” switch to the official City Christmas Tree will be flipped by Mayor Eric Barna, lighting the night with dazzling colored lights.
Food vendors will take charge of the evening’s dinner needs, as La Rosita’s Tacos will delight with Mexican fare and Pro Catering will present their delicious offerings. Race Trac will be on hand for coffee and hot chocolate. An ATM will be onsite for the convenience of visitors. Free parking at Kimbrough Stadium will be available and no-cost shuttles will ferry visitors to and from the parking lot all evening.
“We generally see lots of people come through for either a short visit or the entire evening. Either way, it’s a wonderful time for all of us to get together as a community and enjoy each other’s company,” she said. “In fact, we’ve heard of some families who take a photo with Santa every year and track how they change year-to-year.”