Communities throughout the area are planning Christmas festivities next weekend to usher in the holiday season.

Here's a look a look at what's happening:

* Post Falls - Winterfest, which is organized by city staff and includes caroling, a visit from Santa, kids activities, refreshments and a tree lighting, will be held on Friday from 6-8 p.m. at City Hall, 408 N. Spokane St.

Nonperishable food items, unwrapped new toys, blankets and gently used coats will be accepted to benefit the food bank. The event will also kick off a holiday giving tree.

Activities will move inside in case of rain or snow.

* Rathdrum - December D'Lights sponsored by the Rathdrum Area Chamber of Commerce and the city will be held on Friday from 5-8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3, from 3-5:30 p.m.

Friday's activities, including a holiday stroll, are planned for the Stein's Lakeland Shopping Center. Free hay rides will be available at the library. Boarding passes should be picked up at 4 p.m.

There will also be caroling and food for sale.

On Saturday, activities on Main Street include the lighted rig parade at 5 p.m. There will be carols, fire pits, kids crafts, a dash for cash at 4 p.m., recipe contest, the Discover Technology bus and robot and a visit from Santa.

Dance Theater Northwest will hold an open house, including vendors, a bake sale and blanket and canned food drive, from noon to 6 p.m. at 8193 W. Main St.

* Hayden - The Hayden Lights parade starts at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, on Government Way from Hayden to Honeysuckle.

The Christmas tree lighting, featuring Mayor Ron McIntire, entertainment and free refreshments, will be held at City Park after the parade.

Donations will be accepted for Toys for Tots.

* Spirit Lake - Activities on Maine Street on Friday start at 3 p.m., including performances from the Timberlake High band and choir.

Businesses will be open and offering refreshments.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating downtown revitalization project will be held at Maine and Fourth around 5 p.m. There will also be a lighted lawnmower parade.

* St. Maries - Christmas in St. Maries on Saturday includes a stroll on Main Street from 1-5 p.m., a lighted parade at 5 p.m. and a free concert at 6:30 p.m. at the Heyburn gym.

There will also be wagon rides, craft fairs, pictures with Santa and kids activities.

The Benewah Community Hospital Gala will be held on Dec. 11 from 1-4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge. The event includes gourmet refreshments and a chance to win a decorated Christmas tree and gift baskets.