Winterfest 2010 Kicks Off Today

Starting at 10 a.m. today, the Westwood Young Women's Club will kick off the annual tradition known as Westwood Winterfest at Westwood High School.

The fair, which began 20-some years ago as a "Breakfast with Santa" event, will feature a number of vendors, entertainment, and refreshments.

"The whole Westwood Young Women's club organizes it," said Erica Rice, a volunteer with the club and manager or the Coldwell Banker Westwood office. "It's a huge group effort; it's quite an event."

One attraction that will be on hand is the Pocket Lady, who walks around in a clown-like manner, wearing a large dress riddled with various pockets, into which children can reach and pull out a gift.

"It's a lot of fun," she said. "The most crowded is around 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. I would say be prepared, it's very popular."

The proceeds, Rice said, go to various charities in the Westwood area. Rice is expecting the crowd to be on par with previous years, as well.

"I don't see any reason why it wouldn't be just as popular this year," Rice said. "It's very affordable."

The event will feature raffles, a silent auction, kids' crafts and a number of games.

The Westwood Public Library will have librarians on hand to read stories in a "hearthside" atmosphere, and entertainment will be performed by My Gym, Miss Janet's Dancers, and Violet the Clown.

will also be on hand for photos, taken by Mark Detoma of Images4Kids.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at Westwood High School.