Cheney Winter Festival starts with breakfast Saturday

The idea for Cheney’s Winter Festival emerged in the sunny days of October.

Pathways To Progress, anticipating the need for some Christmas cheer, said, “Why not?”

The group selected Ashley Davis, one of its own, to coordinate Saturday’s festival. Soon Paul Simmons of Cheney Parks and Recreation, and Eastern Washington University, Eagle Entertainment and local businesses, including Willow Springs Restaurant, signed on.

“The festival starts with a $6.50 breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the restaurant,” said Mike Hartman, owner of Willow Springs. Children will receive gift bags containing crayons and toys.

They can pin the tail on the reindeer or play holiday twister.

From noon to 4 p.m., several events take place simultaneously.

At the University Pence Union Building, the staff of Eagle Entertainment and students at the university will guide children in making noodle necklaces and other crafts. Local artists will display works.

During the afternoon, the Wren Pierson Building will be abuzz with arts, crafts and food sales. Several vendors have asked for booth space, including those who participated in Rodeo Days and Farmers’ Market.

The adventuresome can pick up their first clue for the Kris Kringle treasure hunt at the Wren Pierson Building. Players will wend their way downtown following clues, with final clue leading to a gift basket filled with donations from local businesses.

There will be a drawing for the prize.

Cheney Public Library’s Christmas tree is the focal point at 5:30 p.m. Saturday. During the tree-lighting ceremony, Cheney Mayor Amy Jo Sooy will read the proclamation for “Cheney’s First Annual Winter Festival.”

Police Sgt. Dave Mather will read “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Santa, in the person of Sam Mueken, will be available with his live reindeer. Middle school and high school students in the Youth Commission will serve hot chocolate.

It will take much cooperation and steady nerves to make the city celebration a success.

In the days before the festival, Davis is busy writing instructions on Post-It notes while coordinating with Simmons by cell phone. In rare moments when the phone is silent, Davis confers with others in the Pathways To Progress office.

“If anything goes wrong, I’ll be to blame,” Davis said with a smile.