Old Town Portola was festive with activity Dec. 6 as Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrived to help light the downtown tree. Children of all ages got to speak with them and pose for pictures.
The kids participated in a golden ticket contest that offered prizes from electric guitars, bicycles, sports equipment, and more. They were also directed to a booth, where they got to pick out a toy themselves. Children’s faces shone with happiness.
The Lost Sierra Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event, which made available over 350 gifts. The Station Church offered free hot chocolate, and there was an arts and crafts booth to make ornaments. Local merchants opened their doors to the seasonal revelers. Sponsors ignited two bonfires around the newly installed electric vehicle charging stations.
Portola Collectables Arts and Crafts sponsored local guitarist Andrew Ohren, who contributed holiday music. Red and White had a table with refreshments and the Broken Stick boutique was also open. After dark the crowd was treated to a light parade and tree lighting.
The Western Pacific Railroad Museum’s Santa Train will be open Dec. 20 and 21 from 4 to 9 p.m.
