Celebrations starts at 10 a.m., Santa makes a visit

EPHRATA — The Ephrata Chamber of Commerce is celebrating Washington state's dominance in mint flavor production again this year with the Mint Explosion festival.

"Grant County is the largest producer of a variety of mints in the nation," said Rita Tuller, the chamber's director.

The annual winter festival is in its third year and will be held Saturday.

The chamber and associated local businesses will sponsor the event, which features an evening light parade, fireworks, activities for children, cooking contest and live music and dance performances.

The celebration will include:

Activities for children at the Ephrata Recreation Center starting at 10 a.m.

Santa will be available for pictures at Sweet Pea Creations, 61 Basin St. NW, from 10 a.m. until noon and then from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

A scavenger hunt for ages 11 years old and up. The game begins at 10 a.m. at Basin Florists, 159 Basin St. SW. The game ends at 4 p.m. and prizes from $50 to $200 will be awarded.

The mint cooking contest begins at 10 a.m., registration forms may be picked up at Hometown Appliance and Radio Shack, 142 Basin St. NW. The contest will award one participant a $300 Safeway gift certificate.

Music by "Far & Away" and "Late Tuesday" at Rock Park Coffee, 26 N. Basin St. Performances start at 3 p.m.

The Christmas tree lighting ceremony will begin at 4:45 p.m. at Sun Basin Plaza.

The lighted Christmas parade along Basin Street will begin at 5 p.m., followed by fireworks at 6 p.m.