Cooperative Extension hosts Christmas event

There appears to be no shortage of Christmas-themed events within the community this month.

On Thursday, officials with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension are hosting its annual “Holiday Cookies with Santa” in its demonstration garden from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Master Gardener Cherry McCormick said the celebration is free to the public.

“The Master Gardeners have held this event before and it’s very popular among children and families in the community,” she said. “It is called Holiday Cookies with Santa and it features Santa and Mrs. Claus. The children can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and have a word with them. It is also a great photo opportunity.”

The event, McCormick said, will take place at the extension’s demonstration garden, which will be illuminated by holiday lights.

Those attending want to make sure that they dress in warm clothing.

“The entire garden area will be decorated and luminary lights along the pathways,” she said. “We typically get about 80 to 90 people each holiday season. Parents can take pictures of their kids with Santa and Mrs. Claus and of course there will also be hot chocolate and tea available in the garden as well. We hope people will come out and enjoy the holiday cookies and refreshments with Santa and Mrs. Claus because it is a family-friendly free event.”

Additionally, McCormick noted the hours at the extension have been temporarily modified due to the holiday season.

“Our office will close as of the 16th of Dec. and will reopen again on Jan. 9th,” she said. “The 4-H program will still be up and operating during that time and they typically meet in the annex building on the south end of the facility. Our next major event will be a pruning workshop on the 21st of January.”

McCormick also said those seeking information on programs at the extension can visit the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays in the parking lot of Draft Picks from 8 a.m., to noon.

There will be no Farmer’s Market on Saturday, Dec. 24.

The Cooperative Extension is located at 1651 East Calvada Blvd.