Just one week after a winter storm pushed back the City of Lathrop’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting, the City of Lathrop was forced to cancel it’s annual outdoor Christmas Parade.

Originally scheduled to begin today at 11 a.m., the Christmas Parade was cancelled because of a storm that is expected to bring an abundance of rain and heavy wind to Northern California – a move that cities like Manteca also made to spare residents from the elements.

But that doesn’t mean that the city’s abandoning its plans of celebrating the holiday season and giving residents the chance to come together.

While the parade is cancelled, the city will be welcoming residents to the Lathrop Community Center today from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for a “Winter Wonderland” that was put together when the city realized that the weather would not be cooperative for an outdoor parade – complete with an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Several of the push floats that would have been included in the parade will be on display for the community to view, and giant parade balloons will also be on hand. Other family-friendly activities will also be available.

“While Mother Nature knows how much we need rain, she’s unfortunately rained on our parade!” the City of Lathrop said in an announcement about the development. “However, we are not going to let this ruin our Holiday Spirit.

“With the unfortunate cancellation of the parade, our festive elves are now hard at work turning the Lathrop Community Center into a winter wonderland where you’ll be able to take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and some additional special guests.”

For additional information about events going on in the community, visit the City of Lathrop’s website at www.ci.lathrop.ca.us, or find the city on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thecityoflathrop.

To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.