The Nogales community will begin celebrating the Christmas spirit with traditional Posada festivities and the 2009 Nogales Holiday Light Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5.

Sponsored by the city Cultural Arts Committee and the Nogales Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce, the Posadas are scheduled from 4-11 p.m. at the Pierson Vocational High School field, featuring gifts for children, food vendors and entertainment.

All vendors will be asked for a $25 donation to help cover costs of decorations and other incidentals. Today is the final day to register to set up a booth or participate in a holiday sales bazaar. For more information, call (520) 287-3685.

On Saturday at 6 p.m., folks can showcase their floats to thousands of spectators that gather annually for the parade of lights organized by the City of Nogales.

So far, there are about 40 entries, ranging from school bands, Scouting Troops, local businesses and churches. But the deadline to submit an entry form is on Friday at 5 p.m., said Omar Sanchez, deputy city clerk.

The parade is set to begin at immediately following the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Nasib Karan Park in downtown Nogales. The staging will be on Morley Avenue near Madison Street, head south to Park Street, and back up through Grand Avenue.

Due to traffic and other considerations, “the preferred area for spectators is along the Morley Avenue route and up through Grand Avenue to the public library,” said Deputy City Manager John E. Kissinger.

All float entries will be judged on the day of the event, and prizes for first, second and third place will be awarded to the best float entries. The presentation of awards will be made at the following city council meeting.

Applications may be picked up at the City Clerk’s Office, Nogales City Hall. Anyone who would like an application to be e-mailed, please contact Omar Sanchez at osanchez@cityofnogales.net.

For info, call (520) 287-6571.