Holiday traditions have a way of bringing people together, and tomorrow, a Pullman tradition will allow families, students, and community members to reign in the holiday season at the annual Holiday Fest.

The event will begin at 3:30 p.m. with a children’s Jingle Bell Fun Run and costume contest. Tase T. Lentil, the giant Lentil Festival mascot, will light the Christmas tree in downtown Pullman at 4:20 p.m.  

Then Santa will make his appearance in Pullman shortly after the tree is lit, but not atop his reindeer-pulled sleigh.

“Santa will arrive by fire truck,” said Alexandria Anderson, event coordinator. “Kids can sit on Santa’s lap and then tour the vintage fire truck.”

When the events come to an end at 6 p.m., festival-goers are encouraged to escape the cold in Paradise Creek Brewery with a free marshmallow roast and bonfire, which is a new addition to the event his year, Anderson said.

The Chamber of Commerce recruits sponsors each year, such as Thomas Hammer, Sam Dial, and Dissmore’s, Anderson said.

“Thomas Hammer provides the hot cocoa, Sam Dial donates a piece each year to be raffled off, and Dissmore’s provides free cookies,” she said.

ASWSU Director of Community Outreach Corbin Poppe said ASWSU is providing support for the chamber primarily by volunteering and running the children’s craft area.

“We donated about 500 candy canes, with some being passed out to children after they take pictures with Santa,” Poppe said. “For the craft area, we’ll have kids making holiday cards and candy-grams, which are basically mini cards attached to candy canes that kids can give to friends, family, etc.”

Depending on the weather, the events may be moved to an inside location, Anderson said.

“Many of the events that used to be outside will be in the Regional Theatre of the Palouse to alleviate the cold,” she said. “Last year it was minus seven degrees out.”

The Holiday Fest is free to the public. For more information on specific events happening tomorrow, visit the Pullman Chamber of Commerce website.