CENTRALIA — The City of Centralia Tourism Commission has created ‘A Magical Holiday’ to gather locals and visitors to generate holiday spirit and joy through numerous fun events during the month of December. ‘Light up the Night’ walking parade is one of the events in the lineup.

The Tourism Commission is encouraging everyone to join in ‘lighting up the night’ during this walking parade which will starts at the holiday tree in Carillon Park on December 14th at 6pm.

Former Major League Baseball player and Centralia native Gary Gaetti will be the Grand Marshall of this first annual parade. Gaetti says he is happy to see so many great things happening in Centralia.

Other festivities on the evening of the walking parade will be a Nutcracker Stroll in Carillon Park where you can take a selfie with a life-size nutcracker.

Santa will be at his cottage ready for visitors, and you can stroll downtown Centralia and see decorated light poles and store fronts displaying the 12 Days of Christmas, listen to the bells of the Carillon, and visit the Fantasy of Lights drive-thru at Foundation Park.

Light Seeing Trolley Tour tickets are available by visiting SeeCentralia on Facebook or call 618.533.7637; riders will enjoy seeing the top ten entries from the ‘Out-SLEIGH Your Neighbor’ Decorating Challenge.

Enjoy shopping with local merchants and the Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce is hosting a pop-up boutique in downtown Centralia.

Centralia area residents and businesses are encouraged to join the fun and beauty of the holidays by placing outdoor decorations and lights.

Those interested in participating in the walking parade who have questions can go to the Facebook page for SeeCentralia or call 618.533.7637.