City announces revised schedule of holiday events

News release from the City of Menifee about holiday events:

MENIFEE -- Fun festivities are coming to Menifee to help the community celebrate the holiday season! From a Holiday Drive-Thru to Santa Virtual Visits, there are plenty of ways to have a jolly good time. The fun begins Nov. 28 and continues through Dec. 18 and includes something for everyone to enjoy!

Beginning Nov. 28, there will be two community contests to encourage residents’ creative side. Our Xtream Light Fight, sponsored by Xtream by Mediacom, is open for all Menifee homes to show off their holiday home décor in one of five categories: Best Theme, North Pole Neighbor, Inflatable Fun, Clark Griswold, and Community Favorite.

Homes will be voted on by the community and applications to participate, as well as a map of all participating homes, will be available on our holiday event webpage. For kids under 18, there will be a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest to show off their festive and creative designs. This event is hosted by the Youth Leaders of Menifee.

The family experiences begin with the Holiday Drive-Thru & Toy/Food Collection, which will be held Dec. 5 in place of the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy dazzling lights, holiday decorations, and see Santa!

This event will take place on Haun Road between City Hall and the Menifee Police Department from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is free to attend. The first 500 vehicles will receive a commemorative ornament. The Menifee Community Cupboard will hold a food collection for non-perishable goods and Santa’s Workshop will be collecting unwrapped toys.

The following week on Dec. 11, join us at the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center for a Drive-Thru with Santa featuring activities, take home crafts, prizes, and a visit from Santa! There will be a contest for the most festive vehicle throughout the night. Multiple sessions are available between 5:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The event costs $5 per participant and advance registration is required.

Our popular Santa on Wheels program is going virtual this year! Santa Virtual Visits will take place Dec. 14-18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Enjoy a 10-minute visit with Santa and let Santa know your holiday wish list, ask him questions about the North Pole, or listen to a holiday story! Visits are $15 for 10 minutes with Santa and include a goodie bag. Bookings can be made via phone or online and registration is required.

For additional information or to register for any of these events, please contact the Menifee Community Services Department via phone at 951-723-3880, email, or visit www.cityofmenifee.us/holidays.