Carmichael Rec & Park District Holiday Programs Begin Dec. 4

Preparations are currently underway at the Carmichael Recreation and Park District to bring community members its annual series of holiday events, including food and toy donation programs and a traditional Christmas Tree lighting celebration.

This year's food drive from Dec. 4-10. The district will be donating all proceeds to Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. Bins will be located at La Sierra Community Center, 5325 Engle Rd., Suite 100 and Carmichael Park, 5750 Grant Ave. Business hours are 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Those who donate more 10 or more cans will receive a free tote bag, courtesy of the Park District.

"We won't have the donation bins till the Dec. 4," said District recreation supervisor Elizabeth Crisante. "Of course, if people want to stop by the district office to make an early donation, we certainly won't turn them away."

A separate toy drive is prepped to begin Dec. 15 from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. at La Sierra Community Center. The drive is a first for the district and will take place during a special holiday concert, the Beatles Holiday Concert, performed by a Beatles tribute band, Because. Admission for the concert is $10 but those who bring a new, unwrapped toy for a boy or girl, ages 5 to 12 will receive a $5 ticket discount. All toys will be donated to Toys for Tots, Crisante said. Children 12 and under are free.

The annual Holiday Tree Lighting will take place at Carmichael Park on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. There will be a special visit from Santa Claus, warm refreshments, crafts for kids and entertainment provided by the River City Concert Band beginning at 5:30pm.

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