Christmas in Kalona to be celebrated Dec. 7

KALONA - A tradition more than 30 years in the making will continue this weekend with free activities for all ages during the annual Christmas in Kalona event.

Jody Larimer, chairwoman for the Christmas in Kalona Committee, said on Saturday, Dec. 7, the town will invite in about 400 people to come celebrate. She said participants can expect the tried and true traditions like grabbing a photo with Santa, a vendors market and mission market.

She said CBI bank will host sugar cookie decorating and Hills bank will host ornament making. New things this year are a gaga ball tournament and the addition of firepits to downtown. Thanks to a donation from the Kalona Cooperative Technology Company (KCTC) four firepits will be placed on the sidewalks with materials to make s'mores close by for a free treat for everyone to enjoy.

Cocoa, cider, beer and wine samples also will be available as well as horse drawn carriage rides sponsored by Tuscan Moon.

Larimer says the committee is hoping for good weather this year but if not, there will be opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit while indoors, too. The Kalona Brewing Company will be showing 'A Christmas Story” from 4-6 p.m. in addition to the local shops being open and hosting business bingo to encourage shoppers to stop in.

She said although the event is just for one day, the committee is expecting a big crowd and is looking forward to all those who come to experience Christmas in Kalona.

'It's a fun, friendly, wholesome family event. You can get some Christmas shopping done and just enjoy all that Kalona has to offer,” she said.