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What an amazing turnout the Taylors Falls Lighting Festival had over the weekend.  This was easily the biggest turnout I have ever seen.  The streets were jam packed with parade goers despite a stiff cold wind.  Thank you so much to Geri and her army of volunteers who made this year’s festival one to remember.  Last year the parade was a drive-thru version because of Covid, so I think everyone was ready to get out in person and have some wintery fun.

This weekend will feature Lindstrom and Chisago City’s tree lighting festivals.  Saturday afternoon Lindstrom invites you and your family to their tree lighting festival located at Memorial Park and the Chisago Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce building.  Beginning at 4:30 you can walk by a winter wonderland and see Santa.  There will be hot cocoa, coffee some snacks and bonfires to keep warm.  Your kids can get a picture and give their letters to Santa at the event.  The high school band and carolers will give a performance for all. You are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the local food shelf.

On Sunday - Chisago City invites you and your family to their lighting festival.  Beginning at 4:30pm, they will treat you to horse drawn sleigh rides, a petting zoo, snacks, hot cocoa, bonfires...the high school choir will perform and Santa will make a grand entrance.  Kids, bring your letters to Santa and if you include a self, stamped envelope with, Santa will respond!  They too are asking for non-perishable food items to be donated or toys to be donated to the  local Anonymous Santa program.   See you there!

Also this weekend there are a few Christmas bazaars  for you to take in.  Chisago Lake Lutheran Church is holding the 20th annual Christmas Bazaar Saturday from 9am to 3pm.  The bazaar will feature raffle items including gas and grocery gift cards, Minnesota Wild tickets, a beautiful water color print and a mystery box filled with goodies.  Also available: coffee, cinnamon rolls. lefse, a bake sale and a sloppy joe lunch.

In Lindstrom, the group from Harmony in the Park will be hosting a craft fair at the Lindstrom Community Center from 9am to 4pm.  The hall will be filled with all kinds of vendors offering great gift ideas as well as many yummy items for purchase.

 And finally, if you are looking for an early photo opportunity with Santa.  Chisago Lakes Maranatha Church is holding their annual Breakfast with Santa and community holiday breakfast.  The breakfast is Saturday and runs for 8:30 to 10:30am.  On top of a great meal, there will be crafts and games, cookie decorating, a mini North Pole and pictures with Santa.

Lastly - I know many of you get excited when you see ice on the lakes.  Please be smart.  The last thing any family needs to deal with at the holidays is a loved one falling through the ice.

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