If you're going to be in the Minden/Gardnerville area tonight, try to catch the Carson Valley Parade of Lights. This parade travels down Hwy 395 from Lampe Park to Minden Park, and is made up of dozens of floats and vehicles decorated with Christmas lights. Rumor has it that Santa Claus might even show up. It's going to be damn cold tonight, so put on a few extra layers and get some egg nog in you before you go down there. If you do you'll be rewarded with one of the few nighttime parades in the area. It starts around 5:00.

One of the other nighttime parades in the area is also happening tonight, the Virginia City Parade of Lights. That's taking place on C Street in downtown V.C. I don't know why they have to both be on the same night, but that's the way it is.

Tomorrow night in Genoa they're lighting their town Christmas tree at 5:30 pm. Santa Claus is supposed to be there, too. Busy fellow.

Carson City is avoiding all the scheduling mess by having their Christmas tree lighting next weekend, December 9th. So that gives you a little room to breathe.

After the Carson Valley Parade in Minden tonight, there are a few things going on in downtown Minden. There's a German Christmas Market inside the C.O.D. Garage, and a miniature Minden village inside the CVIC Hall. Those same miniatures were on display there in July, too.

You can see everything that's happening in the valley this weekend here. And if any of you attend any of these events, I expect a full report!