By Kim Hutchison
Staff Reporter:
During the holiday season, large shopping malls are overcrowded and small children are easily distracted meaning taking them out so they can buy presents for family and friends difficult.
This weekend, local sponsors and participating Ponoka merchants are providing an afternoon of indoor, affordable fun.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 6 at Plaza Bingo, the annual Children’s Christmas Shopping Party will be taking place at the Ponoka Bingo Hall. 4-H Elves will be on hand to take kids around from vender to vender to help them find something for everyone on their list. The elves will also be glad to help kids wrap and tag gifts so they are ready to go under the tree. Parents or guardians can come along and take a break by indulging in cookies and coffee.
Aside from shopping, there will be visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, pictures with Santa, delicious snacks and refreshments, open concessions, horse-drawn wagon rides (11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and Christmas caroling.
“This event is great for the community and the Christmas spirit,” said organizer Brenda Raab. “Kids need a place to shop and they can do that here in a safe, controlled environment. They love it and it promotes and supports our venders.”
There are 11 participating venders which is a substantial increase from previous years proving the event is getting bigger and better with time.
Everyone is welcome and admission is free. For more information phone 403-783-3888 or 403-704-7500.