The public also is invited to bring an unwrapped, new toy to the center from now until Dec. 20 for a needy child at Christmas.
Kona International Market kicks off holidays
Santa’s grand arrival is at Kona International Market at 11:30 a.m. Saturday. The public is invited to bring cameras for pictures with Santa.
Live entertainment from noon to 1 p.m. will be the Konawaena High School Band. On the center stage, the Kai Ehitu Canoe Club will be fundraising by offering gift-wrapping services.
Santa’s arrival kicks off the Christmas season with weekly visits from Santa, weekly entertainment and holiday cheer.
On Dec. 16 is live entertainment starting at noon with Mele-O-Kona and Hula Halau Makanani; Dec. 23 is caroling by members of the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity carols and Kona Faith Center.
Santa coming to Waimea on Saturday
The public is invited to visit Santa in the Fireside Food Court at Parker Ranch Center on Saturday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., following the 46th annual Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade. Santa will return to the center on Dec. 3 from noon to 3 p.m. A free photo can be taken with Santa either day. Donations will be accepted to benefit the Waimea Lions Club and North Hawaii Hospice. Goody bags will be distributed to all the children visiting Santa while supplies last.
The center is also collecting nonperishable food donations on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with all donations going to the local food banks. The drop-off site is between Starbucks and Foodland.
The public also is invited to bring an unwrapped, new toy to the center from now until Dec. 20 for a needy child at Christmas.