‘Christmas In July’ Fundraiser Hopes To Raise Money For Parade

More than 30 local businesses will participate in a fundraiser next week as part of an effort to raise $10,000 for the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade.

The four-day “Christmas in July” fundraising campaign will begin July 22 at the city’s weekly street fair, VillageFest, said Amy Blaisdell, the city’s director of communications.

The parade, which draws up to 80,000 people to downtown Palm Springs during the Christmas holiday season, was almost canceled because of the city’s projected $7.7 million deficit.

“The City Council is extremely appreciate of the efforts of our local merchants to help keep the Festival of Lights Parade going strong and we encourage everyone in the Coachella Valley to shop and dine in Palm Springs during `Christmas in July,”‘ said City Manager David Ready.

“Santa Claus” is expected to make an appearance at the street festival, which will also feature holiday music and raffle tickets for prizes, Blaisdell said.

The parade has cost the city as much as $60,000 in years past.