EL PASO, TEXAS - A week before Thanksgiving and already El Pasoans are gearing up for the Christmas season.  In fact, El Paso County will begin celebrating as they transform Ascarate Park into a "Winter Wonderland."  The park will be illuminated with life size Christmas displays starting at 5:30pm on Sunday, November 23, 2008.         

"The ceremony is a heartwarming tradition and we hope to see many of our families at the park," said County Commissioner Veronica Escobar, Pct. 2.

The lighting ceremony and festivities will include live entertainment, holiday choirs, hot chocolate, cookies and more.

 "We hope all El Paso families will come and enjoy the County's gift to our community", said Rosemary Neil, Director of Family and Community Services.

Visitors to "Winter Wonderland" can drive through the park and no admission will be charged on the day of the event only.  Ascarate Park will be lit from 5:00pm to 9:00pm every night from Nov. 23rd - Jan. 4th

For more information, please call the County Parks Department at (915) 772-5605.

IN BRIEF:

WHAT:   Ascarate Park Winter Wonderland Lights Ceremony

WHEN:   Sunday, November 23, 2008

TIME:      Program begins at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Ascarate Park, 6800 Delta Avenue, at the Blue Gill