Wasco Christmas Parade set for December 2

Santa Claus has made his travel plans to be in Wasco for the Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting and Vendor Faire on Saturday, December 2.

For the third year, the Wasco Rose Festival and Orange Heart Foundation will bring our community an evening of fun, fellowship and festivities on the first Saturday in December.

The Vendor Faire begins at 4 pm at Wasco High School at the cafeteria parking lot to allow shopping and eating before and after the parade and tree lighting. It will feature a variety of local artisans and crafters. Attendees can explore a diverse array of unique gifts just in time for the holidays for that special loved one, not to mention delicious treats to enjoy.

Some 2023 Christmas Faire vendors include Get it Twisted, Creations by Brigette, Trendy Bitz, Gift Me, Babmokja Korean BBQ, Crafty Corner, Hilda's Aguas and Jacky's Creations.

The Wasco Christmas Parade begins at 6 pm and will start at the intersection of Broadway St. and 7th St. A long-standing tradition, it brings the community together with festively decorated floats, music and enthusiastic participants as families gather along the parade route, cheering and applauding with joy.

At approximately 7:15 pm, the Tree Lighting will take place in front of the Wasco High School historic auditorium, symbolizing the start of the holiday season. The Block Party, where there will be no shortage of fun and laughter, will continue until 9 pm. You can expect a lively performance by the WHS marching band, a celebration of honored guests and opportunities for pictures with Santa.

"Each year gets bigger and better. Year over year, we add more vendors, increase the number of parade entries, and more Wasconians join us for this special night," said Orange Heart Foundation Secretary/Wasco Rose Festival Board Member Orquidea Ocampo.

The parade entry fee will be a toy, sock or book donation to Wasco Toys for Tigers. If you would like a parade application, please email Parade.WascoRF@gmail.com or call Christi Johnson at 661-772-4107. Vendor applications are still available, and one can email Vendor.WascoRF@gmail.com or call Orquidea Ocampo at 661-717-5783. Volunteers are always welcome; more information can be found at Volunteers.WascoRF@gmail.com.

Wasco Rose Festival Committee Member Sharon Sharp said, "Please join the Wasco community for a Toy Story Christmas at the Wasco Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting, and Block Party on December 2 as Wasco sparkles with the magic of the season. Let the joy of the holidays bring warmth and unity to our wonderful community."

Share your memories and photographs on social media with #WascoChristmas2023. Follow on Facebook: Wasco Rose Festival or on Instagram: @wascorosefest.