The West End will celebrate its annual Parade of Lights and Elfin Eve on Thursday, Dec. 4. The theme of this year’s parade is “Christmas Past,” and entries will start lining up at the Naturita Community Center at 5 p.m. After the sun sets, the parade will make its way down Main Street in Naturita before traveling up Highway 97 to Nucla’s business district, where it will turn around and come to an end at the Nucla Fire House.
Those interested in entering a float in the parade should complete and submit an entry form by Dec. 2. That form can be found on the Nucla-Naturita Area Chamber of Commerce’s website, where it can be submitted electronically. The form can also be printed and returned to the Visitors Center in Naturita, and it can be picked up at the Visitors Center, if needed.
There are three categories to enter the parade: private/family, clubs/groups and government/business. Judges will select a first-place winner for each category. An overall People’s Choice winner will also be selected too, and prizes will be given to all winners.
After the parade, a variety of activities will be available at the Nucla Fire House. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided, and Santa Claus will be handing out goodie bags and visiting with kids starting at 6 p.m. The Spruce and Columbine Garden Club will also be on site at the fire house, and members will be serving a meal for a small fee.
“It's usually a favorite,” said Nucla Mayor Paula Brown. “They usually come and do their soup or chili, so people can come in and have a hot meal while they’re waiting for the parade or Santa.”
Several local businesses will be extending their hours, offering special deals and hosting activities to participate in the festivities.
In Nucla, Art at the Apothecary will be hosting their third-annual craft fair, where a raffle will be held for a quilt. Tickets for the raffle can be purchased for $1, or six tickets can be purchased for $5. The quilt is 54.5 inches by 55 inches and includes holiday colors. Cassandra Farmer told the Forum “it’s a good cuddle-size quilt.”
Those interested in reserving a vendor space at the craft fair should contact Art at the Apothecary. There is a $10 table fee to participate.
In Naturita, Flying Bear Pizza at Naturita Bicycle Company will also be hosting a craft night, at which participants will be able to create a variety of holiday-themed crafts.
Brown said she’s hoping other businesses choose to participate, and that those who are interested can share a flier for their activities with the Nucla-Naturita Area Chamber of Commerce, which will help spread the word via their social media.
The Parade of Lights and Elfin Eve are sponsored by the West End Sheriff’s Posse and the Nucla-Naturita Area Chamber of Commerce. All are invited to join in on the holiday cheer and support local businesses.
