November 11, 2014
Christmas in the Park focuses on quality family time
Food vendors provide lively fare for the evening
MURPHY (November 11, 2014) From the very beginning, the allure of Murphy’s annual Christmas in the Park event has been the gathering of families, young and old, to usher in the holiday season, says Kayla McFarland, Special Events Coordinator.
“Our focus has been bringing families together to share this special time,” she said. “And what do families do when they come together? They eat! Our lineup of food vendors for this year’s event has a little something for almost everybody. ”
Christmas in the Park is set for Thursday, Dec. 4 starting at 5 p.m. and continuing until 8 p.m. at the Murphy Municipal Complex, 206 North Murphy Road. Free parking and shuttles will be available at Tom Kimbrough Stadium, just north of the Complex.
Dinner fare for purchase includes hamburgers, hot dogs, fries and traditional American food offered by SU Amazing Foods; Mexican delights such as chicken and beef fajita tacos, quesadillas and other south of the border treats will be offered by La Rosita’s Tacos; the ever-popular funnel cakes, twister taters, corn dogs and other carnival-type foods will be provided by Pro Catering; Race Trac will be giving away free hot coffee and hot chocolate; Hope Church will provide free hot chocolate as well; and the Murphy Moms Club will be selling popcorn, cotton candy and cookbooks with favorite local recipes.
“An ATM will be on site,” said McFarland, since most food vendors will only accept cash. “Families can skip the long lines at the local drive-throughs, and satisfy their appetites at the event with some really great food.”
And, while munching on these delectable foods, the family can sit and relax while enjoying the sounds of the season. Among the performing artists are student choirs from Wylie High School, Murphy Middle School and McMillen High School. Firehouse DJ will provide seasonal music, the McMillen Dazzlers will perform, and Carissa Foreman is scheduled to fill the air with Christmas songs.
Following tradition, Mayor Eric Barna will deliver a brief address right before officially lighting the community Christmas tree, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. That will be followed immediately by the announcement of the winners in the Tree Decorating Contest.
“Christmastime is family time, and for us, providing a chance for families to come celebrate the approaching Christmas season is a labor of love,” she said. “Giving families a place to develop memories, eat together and spend time together is extremely rewarding.” The event is free and open to the public.