Washougal hosts Christmas parade, tree lighting

Washougal will host its first-ever Christmas parade on Friday evening, followed by a community Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The parade will start at 6 p.m. on Main Street at 24th Street and continue to Pendleton Way before disbanding. The parade is being sponsored by Waste Connections and Columbia Resource Company.

Trophies will be awarded for best use of lighting, best use of music and best overall entries. A reviewing stand will be at Reflection Plaza near Pendleton and Main streets.

Immediately following the parade, the community Christmas tree lighting will happen in Reflection Plaza. Santa Claus will help light the tree and stay afterward to take photos with attendees.

Also on Friday, the Washougal Festival of Trees will preview decorated trees and holiday baskets up for auction from 4 to 8 p.m. in Washougal Town Square, adjoining Reflection Plaza. The festival and bidding will start at 2 p.m. Saturday. Bidding on trees and baskets ends at 5 p.m. All proceeds benefit Washougal schools.

You can learn more about the parade and tree lighting at www.cityofwashougal.org or by calling 360-835-8501. You can get more information about the Festival of Trees by contacting Chuck Carpenter at 360-335-1947 or washougalchuck@gmail.com