Healdsburg celebrates the holidays

Put down your turkey and head outside. This weekend will be a busy and festive kick-off to the holidays in Healdsburg and surrounding areas. You can stay close to home and take a carriage ride, see a tractor parade, visit with Santa (more than once) see the Chanukah lighting and much more.
Downtown Holiday Party
Friday, Nov. 29
The Friday night following Thanksgiving is a big night in downtown Healdsburg. This year is the 10th annual “Holiday Party in Downtown Healdsburg.” It runs from 4 to 9 p.m. throughout the entire downtown area as merchants open up their doors with good deals and fun entertainment.
Of course, Santa Claus will arrive on the plaza at 4 p.m. and children are encouraged to bring their lists. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras to get the perfect holiday picture.
Carriage rides circle the plaza, as carolers, choristers, a brass quintet and a blues band entertain guests. Oops the Clown and Frenchie the Face Painter will be on hand for the kids as well.
Many of the downtown businesses provide additional food, drinks and entertainment in their shops.
Kiwanis Christmas Tree Lot
Friday, Nov. 29 — Tuesday, Dec. 24
The Kiwanis Club of Healdsburg is again opening up its Christmas tree lot beginning on Friday in the lot just north of City Hall (on Vine Street). The lot will be open through Dec. 24 every Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Community Tree Lighting and Light Up A Life
Sunday, Dec. 1
North County Hospice will be hosting Healdsburg’s Community Tree Lighting on the Plaza this year. Light Up A Life is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m.  
North County Hospice will present an evening of music and inspiring words, and an opportunity to honor and remember loved ones during the holidays. Light Up A Life has been held for the past two years at the North County Hospice house on East Street, but everyone is excited to be on the Plaza this year.  
“North County Hospice is grateful to be a part of this important Healdsburg tradition.  We welcome the community to join us at Light Up A Life as we honor our loved ones this holiday season,” said Nina Arbour, Manager of Volunteer Services and Community Education.
The event will include music and inspiring words, candlelight and ceremonial tree lighting. The event is free and open to all.
Healdsburg’s Chanukah Festival
Sunday, Dec. 1
Healdsburg’s Chanukah Festival and lighting event will also take place on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. at Oakville Grocery. The lighting and celebration is provided by the Chabad Jewish Center of Sonoma County. There will be live Klezmer music, hot latkes, gelt, prizes and much more at the event.
For other holiday events, visit the Chamber’s website at www.healdsburg.com.