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Christmas happenings set in Vista

VISTA — The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony along Main Street will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5. Main Street trees from South Santa Fe Avenue to Vista Village Drive will be filled with lights at the direction of Mayor Morris Vance. A decorated Christmas tree will be lit up at the Main Street Gazebo as a centerpiece for the downtown decorations. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pose for free photographs with the children and there will be activities for the kids that tie into this year’s parade theme: “I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas.” Dancers from Tanya’s Dance, Gyminny Kids Gymnastics and the band from the Vista Academy of Performing Arts will perform at the gazebo, as well as in front of First Cut Demos located at 217 E. Broadway. Area merchants will be offering special promotions throughout the evening.
On Dec. 6, North County Transit District, or NCTD, will run a very special holiday-themed train called “Santa’s COASTER Express” featuring an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. NCTD is offerings rides on this very special train for $4 per passenger, with all proceeds to be donated to the North County Community Resource Center. Special round-trip tickets must be purchased in advance from NCTD’s Customer Service office at 810 Mission Avenue in Oceanside. For details, call (760) 966-6500.
Also on Dec. 6, the Vista Christmas Parade on South Santa Fe Avenue and Main Street will be at 1 p.m. The parade includes five or more marching bands, 70 entries and an aerial flyover and is sponsored by the Vista Chamber of Commerce with major funding from the city of Vista.