Governor and First Lady to officiate over the Carson City Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights this Friday
Since 1988, the Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights has heralded in Carson City’s holiday season. The festival has grown from a simple tree lighting on the capitol grounds to involving the entire downtown core attracting thousands to enjoy this very special event.
The Carson City fifth graders are the star of the show. They have been practicing for their debut on the capitol steps since the end of October. This year, 369 students from the Carson City School District, Bethlehem Lutheran, Saint Teresa of Avila, and Carson Montessori will sing beloved Christmas songs. Special appearances by Santa Claus and The Grinch help lead the children in song.
Governor Steve Sisolak and First Lady Kathy Sisolak will attend their first Carson City holiday event since becoming Governor this year. The First Lady will be responsible for flipping the switch at 6 pm to light the official tree on the capitol grounds. Mayor Robert Crowell and Carson City’s First Lady Susan Crowell also will be in attendance. All of downtown will be lit until shortly after the New Year.
Carson Street will be closed between 4-7:30 p.m. to allow for free pedestrian movement between Robinson and Fifth Streets. Free sleigh rides begin at 4:30 p.m.
After the lighting event, carolers from Carson High and Sierra Lutheran High will entertain diners in the various restaurants. Santa and the Grinch will appear at McFadden Plaza for photo sessions where the Carson Middle School Band and Carson City Youth Theater Show Stoppers perform holiday tunes.
Many downtown restaurants are offering festival special drinks and food offerings to get into the spirit of the event. The Carson Nugget will be offering children the opportunity to choose a free cuddly stuffed toy following the tree lighting. Various establishments are offering free hot chocolate and cookies.
This year, the festival continues through Saturday, 12/7, as children are invited to ride the Carson & Mills Park Railroad between 11 am – 2 pm. The rides are free, and the Grinch will be on hand for photos. The railroad is operated by the Carson City Railroad Association. Note: If the weather is inclement, the railroad will not be able to operate.
Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights could not be possible without the cooperation of the State of Nevada and the buildings and grounds crew and the City of Carson City funds. The event is proudly produced by the Carson City Chamber of Commerce.
(Carson Street will be closed between 4-7:30 pm)
Friday, December 6
4:30-5:30 pm:
Free Sleigh Rides start in front of the capitol.
5:30- 6 pm
Carson Fifth Graders perform on capitol steps.
6 pm
Official Tree Lighting. All Carson City lights up.
6-7:30 pm
Sleigh rides continue
Carolers perform in downtown restaurants
Photos with Santa and the Grinch @ McFadden Plaza
Photos with the Grinch and stuffed toy give-a-way @ Carson Nugget
6:30 pm
Carson City Youth Theater Show Stoppers perform on McFadden Plaza Stage
7 pm
Carson Middle School Band performs on McFadden Plaza Stage
Saturday, December 7
11 am – 2 pm – Free rides aboard the Carson & Mills Park Railroad in Mills Park. – weather permitting.
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