Old Town Temecula welcomes Santa Claus in picturesque fashion to his workshop on Friday, November 23, 6 p.m. with a grand procession aboard a horse drawn carriage down Old Town Front Street to Main Street. Lighting his way is more than 30,000 twinkling lights from archway to archway in trees and on light poles. It’s opening day of Winterfest and Santa will be escorted by Dickens carolers, a giant Elf, and Freckles the clown.
Santa will listen to children’s holiday wishes until 9 p.m. and while kids wait they can get free balloons from Dynamite Dave or face painting from Freckles. Participating Old Town Temecula businesses will have reindeer antlers for kids while supplies last.
Kids can visit with Santa every Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. through December 16. The Tahquitz District Boy Scouts will take souvenir photos for a donation and help Santa in his workshop. Weekends include Dickens carolers and other family-oriented entertainment with puppet shows, music and Dynamite Dave. Santa’s Electric Light Parade brightens the evening Friday, December 7th at 7 p.m.
Old Town Temecula’s seasonal ice rink returns Friday, December 14, with hourly sessions through January 6, 2013. The 3,500 square foot ice rink will be located at Main and Mercedes. Check the website www.temeculaevents.org for times, prices and more information.
Friday, December 14 also marks the day snow comes to Old Town Temecula at Pennypickles Workshop, Temecula Children’s Museum. Snow and activities begin at 5:30 p.m. See www.pennypickles.org for more info.