This year’s Christmas on the Prairie, happening Nov. 18 in Prairie City, offers the chance to make a holiday sign.

PRAIRIE CITY — Over the river and through the woods to Prairie City we go!

Christmas on the Prairie, with the theme “Woodland Christmas” this year, comes to town on Saturday, Nov. 18.

The popular, annual event, which draws merrymakers from well outside the area, is a sure sign that the holiday season is near.

Daylong activities include the traditional ornament hunt – with a “woodland” flair this year – and a school art contest. Entry forms for both will be available throughout town, and can be dropped off at Bar WB.

And get ready for sales and promotions galore among Prairie City businesses.

A new contest on the schedule is the Snowball Drop when numbered ping pong “snowballs” will be dropped onto Main Street at Depot Park. A grand prize of $200 goes to the first place winner, and a gift certificate to the last one across the finish line. Three random numbers will be drawn for raffle prizes.

Race time is at 10:30 a.m. Snowballs are $5 each or 6 for $25. To purchase snowball tickets, email gpccaoffice@gmail.com.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., American Legion Auxiliary 106 will hold its annual holiday bazaar in the Prairie City School cafeteria. Vendors will be ready to help check items off your gift list with a wide array of jewelry, décor, treats and other handcrafted goods. And no need to halt your shopping spree to eat; the Prairie City High School Lady Panthers basketball team will offer lunch at noon the cafeteria.

The Prairie City Community Center will be buzzing with several activities in the afternoon:

• 12-3:30 p.m.: Crafts such as face painting, and tree/snowflake and card decorating will keep kids busy and happy. Yellow Sage Photography will be on hand to capture memories with family photos.

• Noon: A children’s Christmas program, directed by Julie Reynolds, will entertain folks of all ages.

• 1-1:30 p.m.: Santa Claus will make his grand arrival, and be available for wishes, treats and photos.

• 5 p.m.: The Wright Sign Company will offer a “Fine Wine and Holiday Sign” craft event. The cost is $50 a person, which includes all the supplies to create a 4-foot vintage ski display. Call or text 541-620-1874 before Nov. 15 to preregister and pay.

While in town, take a stroll down history lane with a visit to the DeWitt Museum. The museum, which was once the terminus depot for the Sumpter Valley Railway, is usually closed for the winter but will open its doors for the occasion.

All are welcome to the Christmas tree lighting at 4:30 p.m. in front of city hall. Prairie City’s own Les Church will provide music for the big finale to the busy day.

History

Christmas on the Prairie dates back to 1995, an idea by local merchants as a way to boost local business with sales and drawings. That day, Santa made an appearance, gave out prizes and goodies. The festive day has since snowballed into a major much-anticipated holiday fixture, always held the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

The event is organized by the Greater Prairie City Community Association. For more information, email gpccaor@gmail.com, call 541-306-2334, or visit the group on Facebook or at gpcca.net.