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Wesley Chapel Chamber Lights Up The Holidays

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By SHERRI LONON IN THE LOOP

The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 3, 2008

Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce members are ready to help thousands of area residents ring in the season during the second annual Holiday Festival in the Park Dec. 6.

This year's event is expected to draw between 2,500 and 4,000 spectators for an evening of holiday themed-activities. Beginning at 4 p.m. with the arrival of Santa Claus at Wesley Chapel Regional Park, the event will include such things as a bicycle, wagon and tricycle parade - led by the jolly old elf himself - cookie decorating, bounce houses, a coloring contest and more.

New this year will be an area where children can write and send their letters to Santa, said Sheri Goldberg, executive director of the chamber. Sponsored by Macy's, this event will also count toward the national store chain's pledge to donate $1 to the Children's Miracle Network for each letter to Santa it receives - up to $1 million, Goldberg said. Participants are also invited to bring new, unwrapped toys to the event for the U.S. Marine Corps annual Toys for Tots drive.

The entire evening is organized by the chamber as a way to give back to the community, explained Cindy Fleming, chamber president. Inspired by a similar annual tradition in Orange, Calif., the Holiday Festival in the Park is meant as a "thank you," she said. Everything from the activities right down to the food are offered to participants free of charge.

"This is more than a free event," Goldberg said. "It's a memory." Residents are urged to come out and celebrate "to share in the spirit of giving and allow us as businesses to give back to the community that has given so much to us."

While a number of activities will take place throughout the evening, the crowning moment on the night will be the 7 p.m. Christmas tree lighting, Goldberg said. This year's tree is sponsored by Keller Williams Kelly Realty.

Although there are only a few days left before the festival, Goldberg said the chamber is still taking signups for a number of things. Businesses can contact her directly at the chamber, 994-8534, for information. Churches, schools and nonprofit organizations that want to participate can also call the chamber. Food vendors who would like to give away free samples can call Jeff Miller at 994-6795. The chamber is also accepting donations toward the free hot dogs and chips it plans to give out to attendees.

Signups for the "It's a Magical Christmas" children's parade are still being accepted, as well. Youngsters can register on the day of the event starting at 3:30 p.m.

For more information or to register a business, visit the chamber's Web site at wesleychapelchamber.com. The park is located on the corner of Boyette and Overpass roads in Wesley Chapel.

Editor Sherri Lonon can be reached at (813) 948-4287 or at slonon@mediageneral.com.

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