From the flurries of ‘snow’ falling gently on the brightly lit streets to the crackling fire perfect for toasting marshmallows at the s’mores station, holiday cheer was abundant at the Small Town Christmas in Oakdale, hosted Saturday, Dec. 6. Huge crowds descended on the Julia Haidlen Memorial Ice Skating Rink to spend time gliding on the ice and sharing sweet treats from Bloomingcamp Ranch. Upon leaving the ice rink, folks walked through candy cane lined pathways and uniquely decorated Christmas Trees at Wood Park to hear the Oakdale High School Choir sharing some holiday tunes.

The Grinch and his friends made appearances at The Reata and throughout the evening at various spots downtown. It appeared as though his heart really had grown three sizes because instead of scowls and mischief, The Grinch shared hugs and joy with all who ventured out to meet him. Scrooge and Tiny Tim also stopped by Story Books and Toys on South Second Avenue to share some holiday fun with kids of all ages that were writing letters to Santa and decorating ornaments.

Santa spent some time earlier in the week at the ice skating rink and enjoyed being in the Christmas Parade on Saturday, waving to the crowd and sharing smiles and good wishes.

For Traci Codde, owner of Momma’s Closet, sharing the magic of the holiday season is something she really enjoys. Codde was inspired to open Momma’s Closet for her mother, who had always wanted to open a store that sold unique treasures including vintage items that are hard to find. Momma’s Closet also provides the free s’mores every year as one of the festivities hosted alongside the Small Town Christmas event and plans on doing so for many years to come.

“It is such a great time for families to come out and spend time just enjoying the holidays and we enjoy being part of that,” said Codde.

First and Third Avenues were filled with everything from homemade scarves and hats to woodwork and one-of-a-kind fire pits. The Shoppe on Third Avenue showcased special treats from local artisans while Boutiques at Tiffany’s had gifts for every member of the family, even the furry four-legged kind.

This Small Town Christmas celebration was definitely one to remember with so many members of the community coming together to make this year’s festivities so meaningful, celebrating the family and friends that make the holidays so special while also honoring the memories of those no longer with us.

There was plenty to keep visitors downtown busy throughout the afternoon and the popular holiday light parade was also a hit, with the crowd lining up several rows deep along the route.

And as if all the Saturday activities in and around the downtown area weren’t enough, Santa Claus made another stop in town on Sunday – arriving via helicopter and touching down in the grassy area of the Oakdale Community Park along South Yosemite at mid-afternoon.

From there, he settled in for about 90 minutes of taking photos with local families, who lined up on the walkway and out the gate at the community park, waiting for a turn to get in to see him.

Flown in by Helius, much to the delight of kids and their parents, Santa is also scheduled to make return visits via helicopter on Sundays, Dec. 14 and 21.