Ephrata to ring in the holidays with 'Bells on Basin' fun

Ephrata’s 2025 “Bells on Basin” holiday festival is planned for Saturday, Dec. 13 with fun family activities happening downtown, courtesy of the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce and supporting businesses and organizations.

Here’s a rundown:

• From 8-10 a.m., families can enjoy a free pancake breakfast – and greet Santa Claus – at the Ephrata Recreation Center.
• 9-11:30 a.m. – Kids (and parents) can stop by the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce office at 61 Basin St. N.W. to pick up a “Polar Express Passport,” then follow the map to designated businesses for holiday surprises.
• Complete eight of 11 activities featured at the locations, then return your punched “passport” to the chamber office by 4:30 p.m. to be entered into a raffle drawing.  A trio of winners will be announced Dec. 15 to receive a big “Polar Express” train set, perfect for setting up around the Christmas tree.

•   4:30-5 p.m. – Visit the chamber office once more, this time for free hot cocoa and popcorn while you’re waiting for …
•   … the start of Ephrata’s annual Downtown Christmas Parade at 5 p.m. Prospective parade participants can register online at the chamber website to join the festive nighttime caravan. The parade will stage initially by the Ephrata Senior Center, proceed south along Basin Street between Second Avenue N.W. and Second Avenue S.W, then return along C Street back to the senior center.

Chamber officials thanked the many local businesses and groups which are involved and have provided sponsorship to help cover event costs.

For more information, email the chamber office at ephratawachamber@gmail.com, call 509-717-0050, or stop by the office. Weekday winter hours are 8 a.m. to noon on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. The chamber will be closed Dec. 19-Jan. 4.