Santa riding into Charles City on Saturday

To The Press

Last year he rode around town on a fire truck. This year Santa Claus is coming to Charles City on a horse-drawn wagon – and he’s inviting folks to ride along!

Santa will arrive in Central Park at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4th, and children and their families will be able to sign up in advance for wagon rides with Ol’ Saint Nick between 3 and 6 p.m. The rides are $5 per person, or you can reserve the entire wagon for a group ride for $40.

The online registration link is open on Facebook at Chuck Town: Charles City, Iowa. Proceeds from the rides will benefit the Main Street Charles City program and its efforts to make downtown a more welcoming place for the entire community.

While downtown, people can also enjoy the Santa’s Shining Light Display in Central Park, along with the Cedar Valley Express food truck at the park from 2 to 7 p.m., and hot cocoa available for purchase at McCoy Smoothies across from the park until 6:30 p.m.

“Stop by the Santa House in the park for a Treat Bag while supplies last,” said Joanna Thompson, events coordinator for Charles City Community Development.

“This will also be a good opportunity for folks to do some local Christmas shopping and even check out Main Street’s newest business – Prologue Books & Wine at 213 North Main St.,” Thompson said.

For anyone who doesn’t get an opportunity to see Santa this coming Saturday, Dec. 4, , he will be at the Santa House on the two following Saturdays, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m. as well. Or people may leave Santa a letter through the mail slot on his house.

The Dec. 4th event is presented by Main Street Charles City and sponsored by Dennis Donovan PC and Larry Pump CPA.

“Dec. 4th will also be the kick-off to the December Nights & Dazzling Lights residential holiday decorating contest around town, hosted by the Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce,” Thompson said.

This is a free competition open to all. For more information go online to https://bit.ly/3mNZcjp or sign up at https://form.jotform.com/212925914023148.

Contact the Community Development office for more information at (641) 228-4234 or email info@charlescitychamber.com.