The City of Cathedral City announced that the annual Snow-Fest, featuring the North Pole Village and Mayor’s Tree Lighting, will be held Dec. 9 from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza. This year's celebration, promising a full day of festive activities for local families, is set to create a holiday atmosphere in the heart of Cathedral City.
Shared via social media, the city has provided more details on what participants can expect at this year's Snow-Fest. According to a Facebook post by the City of Cathedral City on Nov. 25, the event promises nearly a full day of holiday fun. It includes an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, the tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m., real snow, train rides, food and the "North Pole Village," decked in Christmas lights.
Further information about some unique elements in this festival are made available on its dedicated website. According to the North Pole Village at Snow-Fest website, North Pole Village is a "Hollywood-style movie set themed as a Main Street at Santa’s North Pole," open Dec. 9 to Jan. 8. There will also be an outdoor market offering an array of holiday arts & crafts, food and beverages. Snowfest Express, a free train ride through a wintry wonderland, will run from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., and then there is real snow—10 tons of it—enough for children to make snowmen and snow angels or even throw some snowballs.
In addition to these exciting offerings, notable characters are scheduled to make special appearances throughout the festival's duration. According to the North Pole Village at Snow-Fest website, besides appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus at 5 p.m., the Grinch will pop in from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., bringing his mischievous charm.
The city has also revealed the key personalities who will be hosting the festivities. According to the North Pole Village at Snow-Fest website, local TV personality Patrick Evans will act as the master of ceremonies for the holiday event, guiding attendees through the festivities. The event has a long list of sponsors, including Comfort Air, Roto-Rooter Palm Desert and Dick Shalhoub McDonald’s.