The holiday season is upon us and the City is taking an active role in adding to the communities festive appearance.  For several years now the Parks and Recreation Department Staff have worked diligently at lighting trees along Main Street and throughout McKenzie Park.  The staff always looks forward to getting out and brightening the town for the Holiday Shopping Season.  Councilor Mike Calame said, “I think that the effort that the guys from Parks put in to this each year really compliments the downtown core and really adds to the positive downtown shopping experience.” 

While the Parks Department tackles the tree lighting project the Streets Department is responsible for the hanging of the Christmas wreath and lighting the perimeter of City Hall with Christmas lights.  Ron Sivey and his crew also are responsible for the hanging of the Christmas Banner that Spans Main street near Hermiston Drug.

This week will also find the Parks Department replacing the fall seasonal flags with flags celebrating the holidays in Hermiston.

Every year the City Council, Mayor and City Manager help sponsor an entry in the annual Festival of Lights lighted Parade, this year scheduled for Friday November, 25th starting at 6PM.  Councilor Jackie Myers says... “We all look forward to participating in the parade it is so much fun to see young families with their children and citizens of all ages enjoying the parade with their friends and neighbors.”

Also a reminder to plan a family outing at the Festival of Lights show at the Umatilla County Fairgrounds.  It is rapidly becoming a holiday tradition for families throughout the region.  Drive through is every Thursday night from 5 to 8 PM.  With walking tours each Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9PM and Sundays 5 to 8PM.

The Mayor and City Council wishes you all a very happy holiday season.