Enumclaw’s traditional holiday parade is set to roll along Cole Street, beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday.
This marks the 50th anniversary for the popular downtown event, which will be celebrated with a “Santa’s Golden Years” theme. The parade – with Scott Gray again serving as master of ceremonies – will feature traditional entries from civic groups and merchants, the annual “battle of the bands” and, as always, an appearance by Santa Claus.
This year’s grand marshals will be Dr. Jim and Nancy Merrill.
The couple arrived in Enumclaw in 1979 and, since that time, have shared a passion for healthcare, social services, education and their faith. Dr. Merrill recently retired after delivering 2,800 babies and Nancy Merrill is serving her 25th year as a member of the Enumclaw School Board. She also was a founding member of the Enumclaw Schools Foundation and was a champion for bringing full-day kindergarten to the school district.
Together, the Merrills have been generous donors to both the St. Elizabeth and Plateau Outreach Ministries capital campaigns. The waiting room at St. Elizabeth’s Birth Center bears their name and they also have contributed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the church’s youth programs, and Rainier Foothills Young Life.
Aside from the parade, which always draws a packed crowd to Cole Street, the day will include:
• photos with Santa from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Puget Sound Draperies, found at a Cole Street corner.
• a window-decorating contest among downtown businesses, sponsored by LiveLocal98022.
TOYS FOR TOTS ‘n’ TEENS
This year’s Toys for Tots ‘n’ Teens is seeking donations of new, unwrapped toys or gifts suitable for children up to the age of 18.
Donations can be delivered to the Enumclaw Fire Station. Or, they can be given to the “elves” who will accompany firefighters during Saturday’s holiday parade through downtown Enumclaw; taken to Tracy’s Produce on Dec. 12; or donated during the city’s annual Santa Run. Cash or checks also will be accepted.
Donated toys and other gifts will be distributed to families in need in the Enumclaw School District on Dec. 19, when Christmas baskets also will be handed out.
Anyone with questions can contact Karen Worthington at 360-825-7498.
SANTA ARRIVES IN BLACK DIAMOND
Santa is on his way to the Black Diamond Community Center, complete with holiday lights, caroling, hot chocolate and cookies.
The Christmas fire engine will deliver Santa to the center Friday. The event starts at 6 p.m. at 31605 Third Ave. The event is free and includes pictures with Santa.