Debbie Croft: Celebrate the magic of Christmas in foothills

Christmas trees, lights, garlands and glittering décor are already in place across the Sierra foothills. And musicians are rehearsing for the once-a-year special events taking place this month. Christmas is coming, so come to the foothills to celebrate the season:

▪ In Tuolumne County, Santa and his missus will arrive at the Groveland Community Hall at 4 p.m. today with gifts and candy canes for the children. The annual tree-lighting ritual will be held later at the park.

Also, on the north side of Mariposa County, Coulterville will hold its tree-lighting celebration at the community park at 6 p.m. today.

The Merry Mountain Christmas Festival will be held today in downtown Mariposa. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. and parking is free. Santa and Mrs. Claus have agreed to appear for photos with the kids.

In historic Jamestown during the first three weekends of December, Santa will greet children at Rocca Park. Downtown businesses are decorated, stocked and ready for holiday shoppers.

Take a make-believe trip to the North Pole at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. The Polar Express train departs at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. today, Sunday and for the next two weekends. Tickets are on sale now. Visit www.railtown1897.org for more information.

Experience Columbia State Historic Park on a Lamplight Tour and uncover an 1860s mystery in the Gold Rush town. During this walking play based on actual events, costumed residents provide an evening of music, dancing and family fun. Tickets are available by calling (209) 532-3184 or at www.friendsofcolumbiashp.com.

For old-fashioned holiday cheer without the traffic and crowds, Columbia offers Merry Merchants. On Dec. 12, the charming shops will be open until 8 p.m. The Columbia Museum also will extend its hours that evening. Bring the family for free carriage rides along Main Street or enjoy Christmas caroling and storytelling in town. Hot beverages, warm gingerbread and roasted chestnuts will warm you from the inside out.

▪ In Columbia on Dec. 14, the All-Equestrian Parade starts at 11 a.m.

That evening the Las Posadas Nativity Procession takes place at 4:30 p.m. This Spanish tradition is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging on the first Christmas night.

More than 30 years ago, the Harry Wright family created the event, and they’re still involved in organizing and directing. With luminaries lighting the way and caroling by candlelight, visitors will enjoy this humble, yet awe-inspiring occasion as they remember the true meaning of Christmas.

▪ A Miner’s Christmas is presented on weekends this month by Columbia’s costumed docents. Visitors can listen to stories told around the campfire. Children can watch for Father Christmas as he wanders through town.

Columbia’s City Hotel Victorian Feast will be held on the following dates: Dec. 11, 12, 14, 18 and 19. The re-creation of a 120-year-old banquet includes melodrama, minstrels, a great menu, and the elegance of a restored historic hotel. The dinner is a fundraiser for Friends of Columbia, a nonprofit organization supporting the park. Space is limited. For details see www.friendsofcolumbiashp.com or www.parks.ca.gov, click on “Visit a Park,” choose Columbia State Historic Park, then click on “Park Events.” Lodging reservations may be made at the state parks website.

▪ The “Sanders Family Christmas” is the current production by Sierra Repertory Theatre. It’s a heart-warming tale of Christmas Eve, taking place during the Depression and just before World War II. A pastor and one of his faithful families attempt to cheer the congregation (a.k.a. the audience) at the church’s annual Christmas celebration.

“Sanders” mixes wholesome values and faith with lots of humor in this holiday sing-along. The play runs through Dec. 21 at the Fallon House Theatre.

Sierra Rep is excited to host local music groups who will sing before select performances. And Father Christmas will be on hand at the Fallon Ice Cream Parlor for photos.

Check the website, www.sierrarep.org for more information, or call (209) 532-3120. More surprises await theater-goers.

▪ If this list isn’t long enough for you, visit the following websites to view more holiday activities: www.yosemitegoldcountry.com and www.mariposachamber.org.

This story was originally published December 5, 2014 at 4:00 PM with the headline "Debbie Croft: Celebrate the magic of Christmas in foothills."