Tree lighting Sunday marks start of holiday festivities in Grafton

Holiday festivities in Grafton officially begin Sunday, Nov. 18, when the annual tree-lighting ceremony is held at 6 p.m. at the Paramount Plaza downtown.

In addition to the decorated trees lining the plaza, the event will feature live music, hot chocolate and cookies.

Jolly the Elf will be there to collect letters to Santa from children and hand out treats. Youngsters are reminded to include their name and address on each letter so Mr. Claus can send prompt replies.

During the festivities, the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual award for outstanding citizen. This year’s recipient is Debbie Krueger, who served on the board of directors for the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight for six years and is the meal program coordinator for St. Joseph’s Parish.

The holiday celebration continues Saturday, Nov. 24, with Breakfast with Santa and the 39th annual Christmas parade. Both events are presented by the Chamber.

The breakfast will be held from 7:30 to 10 a.m. at Circle B Recreation Center, 6261 Hwy. 60, Town of Cedarburg.

The buffet meal will feature pancakes, sausage links, applesauce, juice, milk and coffee. The meal will be served by the Grafton Lions and Leos.

Families are invited to bring their cameras to take photos with Santa and costumed characters.

The cost of the breakfast is $6 for children and $8 for adults. Reservations and payments can be made by visiting www.grafton-wi.org.

“Believe in the Magic” is the theme of this year’s parade, which begins at 11 a.m. and travels through downtown Grafton.

The two-hour procession will feature marching bands, drill teams, floats, civic groups and costumed figures, as well as a special appearance by Santa on his sleigh.

Krueger will be this year’s parade marshal.

The parade starts at the intersection of Sixth Avenue and Washington Street, proceeds east to Wisconsin Avenue and then travels south.

For more information on Grafton’s holiday festivities, visit www.grafton-wi.org and click on the holiday events tab or call the Chamber at (262) 377-1650.