Making merry is what we do

I always enjoy turning over the calendar page to December, “the most wonderful time of the year.” Another thing I love is how Marysville truly embraces the Christmas season and makes it so special!

At the city, we have a wonderful lineup of activities again this year. The biggest event is Merrysville for the Holidays on Saturday, Dec. 4. It starts with family-friendly activities in Comeford Park including food and craft vendors, selfie photo stations and a bonfire from 4 to 7 p.m. The Electric Lights Parade will travel south on State Avenue from the municipal courthouse to Comeford Park. It’s always a glowing spectacle featuring brightly lit city vehicles, community floats and entries, and capped off by St. Nick himself arriving on a Marysville fire engine. It’s free to attend and a fun way to kick off the Christmas season for those of all ages.

On Monday, Dec. 13, we’ll present a free version of A Christmas Carol in the form of a 1940’s radio play. This classic Charles Dickens story is one of his best with drama, heartbreak and redemption. Bring the family and enjoy a special evening of story-telling starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Marysville Opera House, 1225 3rd St.

Then on Friday, Dec. 17, the Opera House will host a Holiday Variety Show as a nod to classic mid-century seasonal live TV programs. In this show for all ages, a professional emcee will lead the festivities including Motown Christmas tunes performed by The Jewel Tones, adult interpretations of children’s holiday plays, and sing-along Christmas carols, plus giveaways and prizes. Buy tickets in advance at www.marysvillewa.gov or call 360-363-8400. 

We’re bringing back a hugely popular program introduced last year, Merrysville Community Lights. Marysville residents, businesses and organizations are lighting up their outdoor areas and competing for prizes donated by several local businesses. Participants agree to have their lights displayed from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 4-31. Find the online Community Lights map and make plans with friends and family to take a drive to vote for your favorites! Winners will be chosen by popular vote and announced on Dec. 22. Get the map and voting information at www.marysvillewa.gov. 

Finally, it’s so encouraging to see the many ways this community steps up to help children, families, seniors and people in need — and even more so at the holidays.

More than 70 businesses and organizations hosted red barrels throughout the city to collect donations for the Marysville Community Food Bank and its Holiday Toy Store; dozens also gave generous cash donations totaling thousands of dollars. Marysville Police held two coat drives last month that collected about 500 coats, 100 hats and gloves, and $2,500 in donations. The Toy Store expects to serve about 2,000 local families this year, indication that the need is great.

This past Monday I joined the Salvation Army of Marysville/Tulalip to help kick off its bell ringing season. Donations support their good work including free food, social services and financial assistance.

So many other individuals and organizations are stepping up as well. It’s been an especially tough last couple of years for many families. Thank you to the Marysville community for giving generously when you can to help our neighbors who need a hand.

As 2021 comes to a close, I want to say how much I appreciate being part of this wonderful community. From my home to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Jon Nehring has been Mayor of Marysville since 2010. You can reach him at 360-363-8000 or [email protected].