'Tis the season in Mission

St. Ignatius shares holiday spirit of giving with Christmas carnival and parade

Decking the halls and jingling bells were more than just lyrics to popular Christmas songs last weekend in St. Ignatius. The town’s First Annual Parade of Lights culminated a day of holiday celebration that included a Christmas carnival, chili feed, giveaways and a spectacular tree lighting ceremony. Four floats traveled the streets of St. Ignatius with the lead vehicle towing behind it an animated group of carolers bellowing both traditional and secular holiday songs together.

The St. Ignatius Chamber of Commerce hosted the 6th Annual Christmas Carnival at the community center from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. There were games and arts and crafts, but the most excitement certainly came at the end when door prizes including an iPod, Nintendo DS, XBox 360, laptop computer and other gifts were given out by random drawing. No one left empty handed, Chamber member Janis Spidel said.

Various local clubs and businesses contributed to the event’s success by setting up booths with games and prizes. Many businesses also contributed money to buy the larger giveaway items, which Spidel purchased for the day.

“The kids are having fun, and so the adults have fun too,” she said. “Thanks to everyone who helped organize and put the booths on. If it wasn’t for them, this wouldn’t happen.”

Families were then encouraged to join the town for the lighting of the Christmas tree on Main Street. Free hot chocolate, coffee and chili was offered to warm cold fingers. Once the tree was lit, Fire Department treasurer Fred Gariepy started a joyful round of “We wish you a Merry Christmas.”

“It’s all about bringing families together,” he said.