Q: As the holiday season approaches, how does shopping local benefit Santa Clarita?
Shopping local during the holidays means so much more than just crossing gifts off a list. For residents, it's a chance to discover unique presents, enjoy festive outings and create holiday memories right here at home. For the community, it means supporting local jobs, keeping dollars in Santa Clarita and helping our shops and restaurants thrive. In addition, every time you spend money in Santa Clarita, the sales tax generated from your purchases goes to fund essential services and amenities, including parks, the Santa Clarita Public Library, street maintenance and public transportation. Every purchase - whether it's a handmade gift from a shop in Old Town Newhall, a cozy drink with friends in Saugus, swinging by your favorite store in Canyon Country or dinner with family at Valencia Town Center - ensures our community continues to thrive. By choosing local, we all share in the holiday spirit while giving back to the place we call home.

Q: What festive activities or seasonal experiences can families look forward to at The Cube this year?
Although we don't typically get snow here in Santa Clarita, The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center, powered by FivePoint Valencia, can turn your holiday into a winter wonderland. Families can celebrate a season full of magic, starting on Friday, December 5, at 7pm, when the Santa Clarita City Council flips the switch at the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Right after, guests will get a sneak peek of the Holiday Skate Show, a tradition that always brings the season to life. On December 12 and 13, those same local skaters will perform the seasonal classic, "The Nutcracker." And if you just want to soak up the holiday spirit at your own pace, pick an evening to lace up your skates and glide around the Christmas tree on The Pond with family and friends. This holiday season, The Cube is the place where our community comes together to celebrate, connect and make memories. For more information, visit thecubesantaclarita.com for schedules and details.

Q: The holiday season kicks off with Light Up Main Street! What magical moments can families expect at this year's celebration?
Since we launched it back in 2013, Light Up Main Street has become one of my favorite Santa Clarita events ever. I remember taking my kids when they were little, watching their faces light up as the thousands of lights on the tree illuminated. Now that they're older, I'm grateful they still want to come with me - proof that you're never too old for the magic of the holidays.
This year's event is happening on Saturday, November 15. Join us and enjoy the five blocks of holiday cheer. There'll be a Candy Cane Carnival, live musical performances, real snow and even a chance to snap a photo with Santa and the Grinch. Once the sun sets, the city council will flip the switch on the tree and light up the tens of thousands twinkling lights up and down Main Street. For info about transportation options, parking, road closure or anything else Light Up Main Street, please visit
oldtownnewhall.com.