Christmas in Cashmere

CASHMERE— While some enjoy the holiday hustle and bustle of big city life, small towns seem to lend their charm to Christmas. With its quaint downtown and close-knit bond, Cashmere definitely stands out as a Christmas community. That yuletide cheer will be on display once again during Christmas in Cashmere held Saturday, Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“When I envision Christmas in Cashmere, I envision everybody bringing their camping chairs sitting around the fire just rejoicing in the holiday festivities and the community we have here,” said Rachel Lippert, Executive Director of the Cashmere Chamber of Commerce. “That’s one of my big goals is to make sure that this event is created in that light and in that insight.”

Several groups and businesses from the community will contribute to this annual free family event. Included in that is the fourth annual Artisan Christmas hosted by Henry Building and Brick and Rafters at 120 Cottage Ave. Throughout the day there will be a Holiday Market on Mission Ave. Parents can also take the kids downtown for Christmas crafts and a chance to meet the Coca-Cola polar bear.

The man in red will also make an appearance. Santa will stop by Martin’s Market IGA and will be available for pictures from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. An antique fire truck will take the big guy downtown at 1:30. Story time with Santa starts at 2.

Free apple cider and other treats will be available throughout the day as well as festive music. There will also be fire pits and opportunities to take family photos around Christmas-themed photo stands.

          Lippert said the variety of activities provides a proper showcase for Cashmere.

          “I think that’s important to us because it brings all of us together,” Lippert said. Cashmere…it’s your favorite hometown. It’s your ideal place for your family. It’s very special. I’ve been to a few different places, and I haven’t come across a town like Cashmere.”

          During the festivities, people are invited to participate in the Cashmere Chamber Food Drive and can donate non-perishable food items to the Chamber. All food donations will be delivered to the Cashmere Food Bank.