ONTARIO, Calif.,- The Ontario Convention Center held a luncheon to honor local artists tasked with restoring the Nativity statues and scenes that are displayed on historic Euclid Avenue in Ontario. Several statues were on display for an up close view of the repair work during the luncheon. Considered one of the region’s most notable works of art, the Nativity Scene was created by famous local artist Rudolph Vargas in 1958. Since then, individuals, businesses, community leaders and service organizations have supported the Nativity scenes.
In 2014, a donation provided funds to commission professional artists to restore the 64 statues back to their original colors, repair the damaged fingers, wings, necks, arms and replace the statues that had gone missing over the years. The following artists were recognized for their contributions on the project: Kim Healy Pretti, Walt Wilkey, Christian Knox, Andy Doherty, Milica Jelisavcic, Kristen Burton, Jaime Colindres, Susi Silvertre, Chris Cuzzetti, and Nick Gavino.
The NOEL (Nativity on Euclid Landmark) Committee, a volunteer group committed to raising funds to restore and preserve the Nativity Scene, says that the work to preserve the Nativity Scene continues, as does the need for community funding to support the project. For more information or to request a brochure about the Nativity Scenes please visit or contact the office at 800.455.5755.
About Christmas on Euclid
Each December the holiday season is kicked off on the first weekend of the month with a two-day festival, featuring a tree-lighting ceremony, carolers and movies in the park on Friday. On Satlurday, the event includes a holiday market, craft fair, snow play and ice skating, a Christmas tree farm, live performances and a visit from St. Nick.
The Christmas on Euclid Experience, produced by the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been a tradition for thousands of visitors each year since 1922. Ontario’s historic Euclid Avenue is decorated for the event, with blocks of family activities including the community’s iconic Nativity scenes. The exhibition of festive lights and decorations are on display throughout the holiday season. For more information and a complete schedule of events visit www.ChristmasOnEuclid.com