Salinas comes out for Christmas

YOUTHBEAT |

Photos and reporting by Isaac González Díaz

An estimated 12,000 people turned out for the third annual Christmas in Closter park, a free event in Salinas with all the holiday fixings. The two-day extravaganza on Dec. 9 and 10 offered a snow park for the little ones, performances from community groups, and free gifts for hundreds of children.

“We need to continue to invest in East Salinas because there is a huge need,” said organizer Orlando Osornio, who represents District 4 on the Salinas City Council. “We gave out over 2,000 toys, but not all the children got toys.”

The turnout was no doubt boosted by the weather. It was the first time in the event’s short history that it did not rain on attendees.

Christmas in Closter Park in Salinas had a strong cultural component as dozens of school and community groups performed.

Artificial snow was one of the main draws at the event.

Food vendors were among the many attractions.

FEATURED IMAGE: Families reveled in imitation snow in Salinas.

About Isaac González Díaz

Isaac Alberto González Díaz graduated in 2023 from North Salinas High School and is now attending Hartnell College. He plans to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in journalism. He enjoys photography, building Legos, listening to music, reading, and taking walks around his neighborhood.