WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP — Santa's lacing up his hiking boots in preparation for the 2001 Olde West Chester Christmas Walk.

        The event, which started Friday with a tree-lighting, began as a showcase for local merchants but evolved into a community celebration.

IF YOU GO

What: 2001 Olde West Chester Christmas Walk   When: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday   Where: Cincinnati-Dayton Road north of West Chester Road.   Highlights: Santa arrives, 10 a.m. Saturday; Light Up America parade, 7 p.m. Saturday.   Information: 779-1768.

        “It's always been sponsored by the Merchants of Olde West Chester,” said Victoria Alvarez, owner of Victoria's Studio and Gallery. “We wanted to make people aware of this area, the fact that there are a few places to shop that aren't the mall. Now it's a community event; kids want to come and carol and be in the parade.”

        The parade began three years ago, when the Christmas Walk turned 10. Organizers added a food court. The township chipped in to pay for trolleys that shuttle visitors along luminaria-lined Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

        Santa and Mrs. C. will chat with the younger set in their workshop while their elves perform magic and balloon tricks. And from cookies at West Chester Presbyterian Church to chicken cheese steak sandwiches in the food court, the goodies are plentiful.

        “We serve hundreds of hamburgers, hot dogs and beef barbecue every year,” said Donna Pingleton, co- owner of D&D Barbeque. “It all depends on the weather, but the weather this weekend is supposed to be perfect.”

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