An Oakdale holiday tradition – Cowboy Christmas – is among the special events coming up this weekend for the community.

Hosted by the Oakdale Cowboy Museum, the event starts with a special evening of holiday vendors and a Western Art exhibition on Friday, Nov. 28 at the Gene Bianchi Community Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

On Saturday, Nov. 29, the Community Center will again be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the artists, crafters and vendors, while Cowboy Santa arrives on horseback at 11 a.m. in the plaza outside the center. He will then pose for family Christmas photos and visit with local youngsters. It’s a perfect time for some holiday shopping downtown and getting in to the Christmas spirit – especially since this Saturday is ‘Small Business Saturday’ with the focus on supporting local merchants.

Meanwhile, the Oakdale Garden Club, in cooperation with the City of Oakdale, will sponsor the annual Festival of Trees in Wood Park downtown, with the Mayor’s tree, and the sponsored trees, lighted on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m.

A parade of trees decorated by local businesses, community groups, non-profits, families and individuals, delights visitors and those just passing through. A large candy cane, with the sponsor’s name, accompanies each decorated tree.

Proceeds benefit scholarships for Oakdale High seniors. The Oakdale Garden Club will provide free cookies and cider for all to enjoy. There will also be music to get everyone in the mood for the holiday season. To sponsor a tree or for additional information, contact Karen Barajas at 848-2231.