Toy train, window painting and parade all about the kids

Downtown Newhall is the place to be for holiday fun starting this Friday night when the Metrolink Holiday Toy Express train rolls in for a stop at 7:30 p.m.

The 450-ton train will be decorated with giant glittering ornaments, animated displays and more than 50,000 sparkling lights as well as a free live musical stage show featuring Santa himself.

Guests are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to the event for the Southern California Firefighters Spark of Love toy drive.

The fun continues Friday, November 30 with two events sponsored by the city of Santa Clarita.

From 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, groups of children will “Paint The Town,” decorating business windows along Main Street in Old Town Newhall. If you and your group would like to participate, fill out an entry form, including a sketch of your design and bring it to Santa Clarita City Hall. Make sure to get your application in by Nov. 26. For

A portion of the 2006 Toy Train

more information, call (661) 286-4018.

On Saturday, Dec. 1, the kids take to the streets again as the annual Holiday Parade will feature marchers, floats and entertainers all under the age of 18!

Children are invited to register with a pet, a friend, a group such as a scout troop, dance or cheer team or performing arts organization, for a fun-filled parade down Main Street.

Lineup and register at Lyons Avenue and Main Street by 8 a.m. for judging; the parade will start at 9 a.m. and proceed down Main Street to Newhall Avenue and finish at Hart Park, where there will be snow, Santa and carolers.

For information on the parade, contact Donna Avila at (661) 286-4145 or e-mail Davila@santa-clarita.com