Murphys, CA…Every year on the first Friday in December, Murphys celebrates the start of the holiday season with a Community Open House & Lighted Parade from 5 to 8 pm. Admission is free, the streets are closed, and we are ready to celebrate. Open House is a great time to peruse Murphys’ shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants, see what’s new, visit with old friends, admire the community tree, and appreciate our small-town vibe.

A favorite of locals, the annual event is an old-fashioned community celebration featuring a holiday parade starting at 5:30 pm, treats, and entertainment hosted by Main Street merchants, restaurants, wineries, and the Murphys Business Association.

Santa arrives with the parade and stays for photos with the kids.  You may find him strolling around near the Murphys’ Historic Hotel right after the parade or stop by the V Bistro to share your wish list with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parents should bring their phones or a camera and plan to get some pictures.  Bring a new toy to donate!

Carolers and musicians are welcome to join us on the street and add to the festivities!

Parking can be a little tricky at Open House.  Please remember that the Black Bart Parking Lot will be unavailable until after the parade.  Free public parking, including accessible parking, is available at the Masonic Hall (Church Street), Old School House Parking lot (60 Jones Street), and in the parking lots of businesses, and on the open side streets. The Masonic Hall Parking lot provides the most accessible parking and is located within just a short, level block of the event area with most of the route closed to traffic.  However, that lot fills up quickly, so you’ll want to get here early if you are planning on attending the parade.