Edmonds Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

The holiday season is here, and Edmonds is ready to celebrate.

"This time of year showcases the artistic influence, warm hospitality, and community ethos that attract visitors to Edmonds year round, but are especially prevalent during the holiday months," said Todd Tatum, director of Community Services and Economic Development, in a news release.

Here are some highlights. All are free:

Santa's Mailbox, through Dec. 13

For more than 40 years, Edmonds has brought a slice of the North Pole to life at the Log Cabin Visitor Center with Santa's Mailbox. The age-old tradition of sending wishes to Santa includes a personalized reply, the hallmark of Edmonds' holiday charm.

According to the Chamber of Commerce, the group of volunteers willing to write over 120 letters per person has dwindled while the number of letters rises by almost 500 a year.

Last year, just a dozen volunteers responded to the 2,500 letters that were "mailed." Additionally, at about $1.25 per letter, it is becoming an expensive program to host.

Update: After the Beacon posted a story online, more than 60 volunteers responded, and the chamber is no longer looking for volunteers.

To donate to the program: http://www.tinyurl.com/n7jx5yn

Holiday Tree Lighting, 3-5 p.m. Nov. 25

The Holiday Tree Lighting includes local musicians and carolers at Fifth Avenue North and Bell Street. The emcee is Richard Taylor. The Maplewood Jazz Band will provide festive music. Treat vendors, beverages and donation drives – Edmonds Food Bank, Clothes for Kids, the Haus of Dogs – will be at Centennial Plaza. Santa will also be on hand.

Edmonds Holiday Market, Saturdays through Dec. 16

The market is held at Fifth Avenue North and Main Street and handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats will be available.

Wreath Walk, Saturdays through Dec. 21

The fourth annual Wreath Walk is a feature of the Edmonds Art Walk. Personalized wreaths adorn the doors of downtown businesses; wreath walkers can follow a map to explore the trail.

Holiday Trolley, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 2-23

The joyous Holiday Trolley experience invites guests to revel in the seasonal splendor as they trolley through Edmonds' charming avenues. With Emily the Elf as a guide, trolley-goers will learn about Edmonds' rich history and vibrant community spirit while immersed in merriment and cheer.

Holiday on the Docks, nightly Dec. 2-Jan. 3

The Port of Edmonds marina becomes a floating festival of lights as boats adorned with holiday decorations illuminate the guest moorage.

Holiday Movies at the Edmonds Theater

Dec. 8: Holiday cartoons, 3:30 p.m., "The Santa Clause," 5 p.m.

Dec. 15: Holiday cartoons, 3:30 p.m., "Elf," 5 p.m.

Holiday Night at the Marina, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 14

Live music, pictures with Santa, and treats. Mary Lou Block Public Plaza.

More information: http://www.edmondsholidays.com, http://www.exploreedmonds.com.