Bakersfield Christmas events begin Dec. 3

Christmas is coming to Bakersfield on Dec. 3 with a full day of activities planned in downtown Bakersfield.

The holiday events begin with Breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Bakersfield School Cafeteria. For $2 per person, individuals can enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast with Santa.

Immediately following the breakfast is the annual Christmas parade through downtown Bakersfield. The theme for this year’s parade is “Inside Santa’s Workshop.”

Lineup for the parade will be at 11 a.m. beside the school’s FEMA building.

First place float winner will receive $100 cash prize. Second place will receive $75, third place $50. Best school affiliated entry will receive $100. Recognition will also be made for best dressed horse.

The parade can be viewed along Highway 101 and downtown Bakersfield.

New to this year will be a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 4 p.m. in the parking lot next to Century Bank of the Ozarks.

In conjunction with the tree lighting, which is co-sponsored by the Bakersfield Auto Club, there will be free ornament decorating, Christmas caroling, free hot cocoa and coffee, free baked treats and raffle drawings.

Additionally, there will be an ugly sweater contest with a first place prize of $100 and a $50 second place prize.

For more information, check out the Festival Committee of Bakersfield Mo. and the Bakersfield Auto Club on Facebook.