The Snoqualmie Valley Chamber of Commerce invited citizens out to businesses in North Bend and Snoqualmie for the first ever Christmas Open House event on Dec. 15.

The event was created to serve as a holiday-themed way to support local business during the holiday season. The chamber worked with several businesses to host events at their locations.

At the Snoqualmie Falls Candy Shoppe fudge tastings were available all day and the store featured photo opportunities with Santa. Carousel Gift shop had wine tasting and treats, as well as an appearance by Santa. Wild Hare Vintage owner Norman Brown brought out The Grinch to hand out candy to people walking around the downtown core of Snoqualmie. OptiMystic Eyes also had homemade sugar cookies.

In North Bend, Twin Peaks Nutrition hosted the Mount Si Band Booster wrapping fits for donations. All of the funds raised will go toward sending the band to Pearl Harbor to play on the deck of the USS Missouri next April. North Bend Theater also held a gaming tournament.

Kelly Coughlin, chamber executive director, said the event is part of the chamber’s new campaign to promote shopping locally. The chamber’s support for local business is important, she said, and she predicts the campaign to shop, drink and eat local will be a factor in future events in the new year.

Samantha and Tyson Patty meet Santa Claus at the Snoqualmie Candy Shoppe on Dec. 15. Evan Pappas/Staff Photo

Lorraine Thurston of the Mount Si Band Boosters wraps gifts as part of a fundraiser to send the band on a trip to Pearl Harbor in April. Evan Pappas/Staff Photo