‘Christmas in Fraser’ celebration returns Dec. 2

FRASER — The city of Fraser is inviting the public to join them for the 23rd annual Christmas in Fraser celebration.

Hosted by the city to jump start the holiday season, Christmas in Fraser provides attendees with some winter cheer and fun activities.

“We’ve got Santa showing up via fire truck, we have the Fraser High School band, we have a live ice-carver, a petting zoo, the Fraser First Booster Club people will be providing hot chocolate, and a dance troupe will be performing,” said Fraser City Manager Elaine Leven.

The event will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at Fraser’s City Hall complex, located at 33000 Garfield Road.

“People can just show up. There’s no cost to attend,” said Leven. “Fraser has hosted this event for several years. … It’s a great local event.”

Although organized and funded by the city, the event includes participation from several local groups.

“The money is provided by the city’s Parks and Recreation department,” said Vania Apps, the founder and a board member of the Fraser First Booster Club. “Organizations like Fraser First and the Lions Club contribute by donating volunteers and materials.”

Apps said it’s the perfect way to bring the entire community together.

“Fraser First will be doing cookies and hot chocolate. We always have a few members there helping. We’re hoping to get more high school and middle school kids involved so they can get some community service hours done through the event,” she said. “People always come and bring their kids. It’s great for young kids.”

She added that it’s one of her favorite programs all year in Fraser.

“It’s gone on for several years. It’s all free, and it’s a great holiday boost,” Apps said. “You come, there’s always a lot of fun. We’ll have Santa there — there’s so many activities. We have crafts for the kids. We have caroling and singing. There’s even a dance performance. People have hot chocolate in the fire department’s fire bay.”

City officials hope the public will take the opportunity to join them for one of the city’s best programs.

“It’s something that really kicks off the holiday season,” said Leven. “It gets people in the mood for the holidays. It’s a great Fraser tradition.”