By Jon Johnson
SAFFORD – Come one, come all to Downtown Safford on Saturday to visit Santa, browse the free entertainment, and gaze with childlike wonder at the more than 50 entries in the 27th annual Holiday Light Parade.
The jolly old elf St. Nick will be at the historic Safford Theatre from 4 – 5:45 p.m. to hear last-minute requests from the area youth.
Entertainment, including performances by the Safford Dance Academy, Extreme Martial Arts, and Gila Valley All-Star Cheer, will be featured starting at 5 p.m. in front of City Hall.
Plenty of stores and vendors will be open late to accommodate holiday shopping. A fun and festive atmosphere Downtown will include food vendors and more.
The parade will begin at 6 p.m. and proceed down Main Street from the Graham County Courthouse to the intersection with 8th Avenue.
After the parade, visit St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church at 311 S. Central Ave. for its annual Festival of Trees. Opening night is Saturday, Dec. 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. The festival will run from Dec. 16 to 20, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m.
