Murrieta Holiday Magic Parade, Snow at Square Set for Dec. 15

A night of Holiday Magic returns to Murrieta this year, with several added bonuses.

The city's annual push-cart parade is scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15 along Washington Avenue in Historic Downtown Murrieta. In keeping with its non-motorized theme, the city has allowed electric vehicles no larger than a golf cart to participate.

Also, the city is hosting a Mascot Challenge as part of this year's parade. Mascots will be judged on their entertainment, support and festiveness. The deadline to enter a mascot and/or parade entry has been extended to Wednesday, Dec. 12.

In addition to push or electric carts, entries may include marching or musical units, specialty groups such as dance teams or clowns, equestrian or animal units, bicyclists or skateboarders, wagons or strollers.

Mascots can be from schools, teams, companies or other organizations.

Awards will be given to the winning mascot, best decorated electric golf cart and the most spirited entry, according to Laura Frasso, special events coordinator for the city of Murrieta.

Also new this year, the city is hosting "Snow in the Square" at 6 p.m. at Town Square Park, immediately following the parade. Fifteen tons of snow will be brought in. The free children's activity will also include photos with Santa, face painting, crafts and cookie decorating. 

During the after-parade festivities at Town Square Park, the Murrieta Firefighters Association will be cooking and serving a "Pancake Breakfast Under the Stars."

There is no fee to participate in the after-parade activities at Town Square; however voluntary donations will be accepted and put toward the Community Services Department's annual holiday toy and food drive.

For more information about the Holiday Magic Parade and "Snow on the Square," or to obtain an application to enter a mascot or float for the parade, contact Laura Frasso at 951-461-6110 or lfrasso@murrieta.org or visit the Holiday Magic section on the city's website. (Entry forms are also attached to this article.)

Leading up to the evening events on Dec. 15, a variety of vendors are scheduled to set up shop for the Winterfest Vintage Marketplace from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. on the grounds of Home Again Consignment & Gift Boutique, 42030 C Street in Historic Downtown Murrieta. Also taking part in the vendor fair will be River Springs Charter School, which will offer a children's craft booth.