POST FALLS — It’s been more than two decades since Winterfest began in Post Falls, but this year, the tree lighting ceremony will be getting a literal glow-up. 

A new 32-foot Giant Everest will tower above the festivities Friday, welcoming participants to the winter market in the plaza outside City Hall. 

“This is just another gathering point in the community for family and friends to celebrate the season,” Parks and Recreation Director Dave Fair said. 

Recreation Manager Traci Stevenson said the artificial tree will serve the city for Winterfests to come, replacing the living tree that had served as a focal point until it grew too sickly to light. 

"We will be planting in the near future to grow a replacement tree, but it’ll take many years to get to that point,” Stevenson said. 

The plaza market and craft area opens at 4 p.m. Santa's dancing elves perform at 6, followed by a tree lighting and appearance by Santa at 6:20. A combined choir from Seltice and Mullan Elementary schools kicks off at 6:25. Bella Canto wandering carolers, Iain Fisher, Bing Sherwood, Dillon Haas and Lance Cox will serenade festivalgoers beginning at 6:45. 

“The dream has always been to grow into a winter market," Stevenson said. "Our biggest thing has always been making it a free event where there’s Santa there for the kids to see." 

Burn barrels will be set out in the plaza for people to warm up, trees can be purchased and treats will be available.

Kids can keep busy creating crafts while they wait for Santa.

“We’ve always wanted our crafts to be nice enough so a parent would want them to be decorations that can stay on their trees for many years,” Stevenson said. 

Tours of the Post Falls Historical Museum will take place throughout Winterfest. Attendees are welcome to donate nonperishable food items to Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. 

    Ceirra Grieser prepares s'mores ingredients for last year's Winterfest in the plaza at Post Falls City Hall.