Day begins with Breakfast with Santa, Grinch at Donaldson Park

CELINA-An all-day kick off to the holiday season will take place here Saturday.

The festive day will begin with a free Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch event at Donaldson Park, continue with Small Business Saturday shopping, and end with the Celina Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade.

The breakfast event for ages 12 and under will happen from 9-10:30 a.m.

“Come enjoy yummy stacks of pancakes, snap photos, and guess what—Santa’s bringing a toy for all the good boys and girls,” organizers said.

Local merchants will also offer shoppers a wide array of Christmas gift options and more throughout the day.

“Stop by all local shops and show your support of our small businesses in town!” Celina Downtown Events said on their Facebook page.  “Get some Christmas shopping done and spread the cheer!”

The parade will then cap off the day with a 6 p.m. start on the bypass, before it makes its way through town to the courthouse square.

“We’re so excited for this year!” parade organizers said.  “We’ve got new things planned, including vendors on the square for during/after the parade, awards given for the best in each category, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus after the parade, and more.

“We hope you’ll join us this year for kicking off Christmas in Celina by entering the parade.  This is also a great way to market your business, and show support to the county and surrounding communities for free!”

Parade lineup will begin at 4:30 p.m. on the bypass and registration can be completed online at https://form.jotform.com/252655450399062.

Awards will be given in the following categories:  Best Use of Theme, Most Creative, Most Holiday Spirit, Best Costumes, Best Animal Group, Best Decorated Motorized Vehicle, and Best Decorated Emergency Vehicle.

For those who can’t make it downtown Saturday night, the parade will also be streamed live on the Dale Hollow Horizon Facebook page by the Horizon Live Network.