by Kathy Eide Casas

Welcome to the twinkling Christmas magic of Clovis’ Candy Cane Lane. The Holiday Spirit is readily apparent as visitors make that first turn onto Peach Avenue, just north of Alluvial and enter onto Athens Avenue for a treat you will never forget. Don’t be surprised to see that the street signs turn from brown to festive red inside this winter wonderland that includes about six dazzling blocks of shimmering lights, inflatables, and Christmas Cheer.

What began as a few neighbors getting together and decorating some years ago, has turned into an annual event that thousands now include as part of their holiday tradition. Each year from December 1- December 25, visitors are treated to a showcase of hundreds of thousands of Holiday lights and decorations, complete with music and activities along the way. Whether sightseers choose to stay in the comfort of their cars or walk through the pedestrian friendly neighborhood, it is truly a unique and sparkling treat for all ages to enjoy.

As an added North Pole bonus, be sure and have the littles write their letters to Santa, as Candy Cane Lane includes an “official” Santa mailbox, located at 947 North Citadel, just one house over from the community park. Rachael Awad, who is Santa’s holiday mail helper, moved to the area three years ago because of Candy Cane Lane. She explained, “We have been taking our kids here since they were very little. Once we moved here, we realized that no one had a mailbox for Santa letters. So, we built the little one that we had and my daughter painted it. We started that first year. My kids love helping write return letters, and we love to sit outside and watch the kids put letters in the box. It is a joy to help spread the Christmas cheer.” All letters that have a return address are answered and sent from Santa, on his letterhead, complete with a Santa post mark. The mailbox was such a big hit last year, that over 150 letters from Santa were sent. This year, Santa anticipates being busier than ever responding to letters.

The lane is open each night 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. The lights stay on until December 25.

Drivers are encouraged to dim the lights on their cars and please watch for pedestrians. ??Walking is encouraged on all evenings. Please be mindful of cars and look before crossing streets. Please also be mindful of the decorations and lights in the yards.

For more information, visit the official Candy Cane Lane Facebook page.

You can find many other holiday events on KRL’s Christmas/holiday events page.

Kathy Eide Casas is a valley native and has been involved in politics, public policy and public relations her entire career. From the U. S. and state capitols to local projects, she has been a guiding force. Most recently, Eide-Casas completed the writing for two U Turns Allowed magazines, benefiting Focus Forward. Additionally, her work has run in several other local publications, including Valley Health Magazine.