MARIPOSA, Calif. (KFSN) — Rain, shine or snow, Mariposa is open for business.
The city’s store windows are decorated for the Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas light contest.
Inside, the owners are ready to welcome visitors and downtown locals to do their holiday shopping.
“We’re going to bring in parents and families, have a tasting and shopping event,” said Jillian Navarro, of Mariposa Marketplace. “Where they will walk around, drink hot chocolate, drink cider, listen to music, and then the kids will find elves and Santas hidden throughout the store and get prizes.”
They welcome the winter weather, hoping more people will come through town to enjoy some playtime in the snow.
“We like people to come, walk the main streets, stop at the local stores,” Navarro said. “Just to get in and out of the cold and the heat, it’s a really good time.”
Snow may be fun to play in, but snow and rain are slippery on the roads. The California Highway Patrol wants people to be attentive so the fun can continue without incident.
“We are just reminding everyone to slow down and increase the following distance,” Ofc said. Steven Mullen, CHP. “Give yourself a little more time to react. Keep your seat belt on.”
Regardless of the forecast, holiday activities will take over the town, including Saturday’s Merry Mountain Christmas Parade and tree lighting.
“Christmas here is like nowhere else,” said Deanna Stickles, Mae It Be Home. “It’s absolutely perfect. Especially if you have this lucky year where it’s a white Christmas. It’s just amazing. It’s home, it’s Christmas, and I hope more people do it will appreciate it. It’s absolutely magical; it’s an iconic Christmas.”
The parade takes place this Saturday at 5 p.m.
CHP wants drivers to remember that if their windshield wipers are working, their headlights should be on. Those heading to higher altitudes should carry snow chains.
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