For 31 years, Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville has presented Christmas in the Park as a way to bring families together and to enjoy the community. 
This year was no different with many making their way down Main Street enjoying the colorful Christmas lights on the trees and light posts. Many were carrying maps marking the different activity locations.
“Our downtown was such a beautiful backdrop for our program, I’m so glad we didn’t have to move it,” said Christmas in the Park chairman Suzy Casey. “In fact, I think the weather was just perfect to get us all in the holiday spirit.”
Several downtown businesses opened their doors to guests, with warm drinks and snacks available. Bounce houses were placed in different areas, providing children with an opportunity to burn off some energy. Excited children could call the North Pole from unique telephone booths placed near the fountain.
A special treat for the youngsters was a ride on the Polar Express up to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, who set up at Pioneer Pediatrics. They first got a golden ticket from a conductor located at First National Bank.
“The train ride was a huge hit, with all the children loving it,” said Casey. “We are so appreciative of Panther Creek Forestry and Cedarwood Pumpkin Patch for making it possible.”   
A slate of entertainers took to the stage, which was situated in front of a 29-foot lit Christmas tree. Holiday music was provided by Joe Harvey, the Morrison Choir and Miss McMinnville Shayla Sanderson. 
Students of Paula’s Dance Academy, and the Warren County High School Pionerettes actually danced in the streets, wowing the crowd with their talent. Students of McMinnville Ju-Jitsu also gave a presentation.
Names of individuals either honored or memorialized were read from the stage by emcee Ryan J. Moore. During the luminary presentation, Junior Auxiliary members placed lit candles in honorary bags placed around the park area.