Fruita, Colorado, is set to host its annual Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13, at 5:30 p.m., drawing an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 visitors to its downtown core. The event, themed “Whimsical Winter Woods,” will feature around 50 participating floats traveling along Aspen Street, starting from Elm Street, circling the roundabout, and concluding at N. Mesa Street. Organizers expect a significant boost to local commerce, as attendees are encouraged to arrive early, secure viewing spots, and support nearby shops and restaurants. Allie Daniel, Senior Vice President of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the economic importance of the gathering, noting it attracts people who might not otherwise visit the town.
Local high school clubs, including those from Fruita Monument High School, will sell popcorn and baked goods during the parade to fund their programs, offering residents a chance to support youth initiatives. Prior to the evening event, the Fruita Rec Center will host a Holiday Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing additional opportunities for community engagement and spending. After the parade concludes, the Lower Valley Fire District will offer free hot cocoa and cookies at 168 N. Mesa Street, creating a welcoming space for families to gather. Daniel encouraged the public to explore downtown businesses before the festivities begin, reinforcing the event’s dual role in fostering holiday cheer and stimulating the local economy.
— news from KKCO 11 News
— News Original —
Fruita Parade of Lights brings holiday cheer and economic boost to Fruita
FRUITA, Colo. (KKCO) – The town of Fruita will host its annual Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13, at 5:30 p.m., bringing thousands of visitors to downtown. n nThe parade will feature a “Whimsical Winter Woods” theme and run through downtown Fruita along Aspen Street. According to the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, 50 floats are already set to participate in the event. n n“It definitely helps the economy to get, we usually have like 2 or 3,000 people that come down for this,” said Allie Daniel, Senior Vice President with the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce. “So it’s definitely helping our local economy and getting people out here. And obviously getting people that don’t normally come to Fruita to come out to Fruita and check it out.” n nDaniel said the floats will start at Elm Street, and head down Aspen Avenue, round the roundabout about and up to N. Mesa Street. She said local businesses and restaurants will be open before and after the parade. n n“Very important to have everybody come down to our community, especially like a couple hours before the parade starts. Go put your chairs out along Aspen Avenue so you can have that killer spot. But also go down and check out some of our retail businesses,” Daniel said. n nClubs from Fruita Monument High School will sell popcorn and baked goods during the event to raise money for their programs. n n“It’s even a great opportunity to help support the kids for, you know, the programs that they’re trying to raise money for,” Daniel said. n nBefore the Parade, the Fruita Rec Center will host a Holiday Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. n nAfter the parade, the Lower Valley Fire District will host a free gathering with cookies and hot cocoa for all attendees. That will be located at 168 N Mesa Street.