By: Jo Moreland
The Alpine Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce
For The Alpine Sun
Bright lights, happy children and great holiday spirit marked the 20th Annual Alpine Village Christmas Parade of Lights & Snow Festival in Alpine!
The community event presented yearly by the Alpine Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce businesses, organizations and individuals was bigger and better than ever on Dec. 4.
By: Jo Moreland
The Alpine Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce
For The Alpine Sun
Bright lights, happy children and great holiday spirit marked the 20th Annual Alpine Village Christmas Parade of Lights & Snow Festival in Alpine!
The community event presented yearly by the Alpine Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce businesses, organizations and individuals was bigger and better than ever on Dec. 4.
There was family fun for everyone watching more than 100 entries parading down Alpine Boulevard or celebrating at the free festival at the Alpine Creek Town Center, 1347 Tavern Road.
“It’s the first time we’ve been here,” said parade spectator Hillary Whittington of Mount Helix, smiling at the Snow Festival. “I can guarantee we’ll be back next year.”
The Alpine Creek Town Center, Brixton Capital, San Diego Gas & Electric and the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians were the major 2015 sponsors.
Dozens of other people, businesses and organizations also helped make the annual party the best place to catch the holiday spirit.
“It’s so much fun,” said Kathrin Turner, an Alpine Union School District teacher celebrating with her son, Colin, at the Snow Festival. “It’s the community all coming together.”
Santa Claus and local police and firefighters led the noisy parade down Alpine Boulevard. People decorated everything from bicycles, pets and a buggy to three equestrian units, major floats and big rigs for the march to the Snow Festival.
“Merry Christmas,” onlookers and marchers cheered each other.
At the Snow Festival youngsters were eager for free sledding down the snow-covered hill and getting their pictures taken with Santa or as fake “snowboarders.” The free games and other activities in the Mountain Health & Community Services’ Kids Zone saw a lot of action.
Ice sculptor Reyes Rodriguez of the San Diego Ice Company enchanted young and old as he created frozen artwork. Dozens of vendors offered great Christmas shopping, delicious food and drink or items, programs and information to make life better.
Alpine Creek Town Center businesses remained open to allow for more shopping and dining.
“I like the festive atmosphere here,” said President Susan Barker of the Alpine Woman’s Club, which had a booth. “It’s so much fun to see the kids so excited. Great start to the holiday.”
Call (619) 445-2722 or visit www.alpinechamber.com to learn more about Chamber activities and opportunities.
