The city of Foley’s Heritage Park has come alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas, as the park becomes a winter wonderland in preparation for Foley’s annual Christmas celebrations.

Festivities begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, with Foley’s annual Christmas in the Park, which includes the lighting of the city Christmas tree, holiday songs and a visit with Santa, complete with elves.

“Christmas in the Park is a special holiday celebration where our local community and visitors alike come together to enjoy the season in our beautiful, decorated park,” said Linda Hula, events planner with the city of Foley.

There are many new lights and beautiful decorations in Heritage Park that is a splendor of light and Christmas spirit. Local businesses, churches and civic groups decorate live trees to create a “Christmas Tree Lane.”

“The mayor lights the official Christmas tree, local groups sing Christmas songs and the Foley Caboose Club provides free train rides around the park for children of all ages to enjoy. Folks can stroll through a miniature Christmas village and Christmas Tree Lane, while enjoying free treats and sipping hot cocoa,” Hula said.

On Saturday, Dec. 5, the annual Christmas parade is sponsored by the Foley Kiwanis Club. The parade begins at 10 a.m., and leaves from the armory on Violet Avenue, proceeds south on Highway 59, west on Verbena Avenue, north on South Oak Street and east on Highway 98, ending at the intersection of Highway 59 (McKenzie Street) and Highway 98 (Laurel Avenue).

As the parade ends, the snow begins. No matter the official weather forecast for the day, there will be snow and lots of it in Heritage Park on Saturday, Dec. 3. Foley’s 15th annual Let It Snow event lasts from 11 a.m. to 3 p. m.

“The snow is created from 42 tons of ice that is shaved and blown over reserved areas for the children to play in,” said Hula.

There are two separate areas for playing in the snow — one for younger children and one for the older children.

Let It Snow is a free event sponsored by the city of Foley and involves much more than snow. Entertainment includes, live music, a children’s art village, food vendors, balloon creations, the famous Whoville Hair Salon and inflatable bounce houses.

“The gazebo in Heritage Park is an excellent backdrop for special Christmas photos with family and friends,” Hula said.

Mrs. Claus will also be on hand to read Christmas stories to the children.

Please visit VisitFoley.org for more details.