The Pella Area Community and Economic Alliance kicked off the holiday season in Pella Monday with the annual De Kerstdagen Tour of Stores. Carolers from Pella Christian’s Spanish Immersion Program and Pella Elementary Choir performed Christmas and holiday-themed music throughout the downtown area. Mayor Jim Mueller also made his official Christmas proclamation. After the kids finished singing, Santa Claus made a surprise appearance and helped with the lighting of the tree on the Tulip Toren. Local businesses held extended shopping hours and Marion County Bank sold discounted Pella Bucks, of which they sold $100,000 in just in about an hour’s time in the 10th year of the program. The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio was broadcasting from the Pella Tour of Stores and collecting food for the annual KNIA/KRLS Holiday Food Drive.