Gonzales celebrates Winterfest

The halls were decked. The bells were silver. Christmas was in the air this weekend as Gonzales Main Street celebrated Winterfest 2017.

Winterfest 2017 was a finely-tuned train, much like the Polar Express, with several stops for family fun along the way.

On Saturday morning children marveled at the premiere arrival of Santa. He made his first stop at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall during the Rotary Club’s annual Breakfast with Santa. The Rotary Club sold more than 150 tickets to this event, served 14 gallons of milk, prepared six gallons of homemade buttermilk pancake batter, then cooked and served pancakes and sausages for all their guests while Santa made his rounds visiting the boys and girls. After breakfast Santa took a seat next to the Christmas tree and heard wish after wish.

Just across the square Christmas readings were being done at Robert Lee Brothers Jr. Memorial Library. Families enjoyed the nostalgia of listening to their favorite Christmas stories being read aloud, by community members.

Santa's Market was a busy one-stop shop for Christmas early shopping. Patrons found jewelry, yard art, Christmas decorations and a host of special and handmade gifts with many unique vendors.

The Winterfest Chili and Bean Cook-Off was a huge success with several teams – young and old competitors – fighting for first place, amid the hustle and bustle on the.

In addition to the festivities on the square, many enjoyed the annual two-day Historic Homes Tour, with five beautiful and unique homes being featured; a free Historic Organ Concert at First Presbyterian Church; and Stars in the Village, at Pioneer Village Living History Center

After the lights of the city faded away, more lights were the main event as the Winterfest 2017 Parade of Lights brightened things up. The lighted parade featured floats, cars, walking groups, bands and more; but, the main event was Santa making his grand arrival in downtown Gonzales.