Leave the dog, bring the donkey

<p>You can't bring your dog, but you are welcome to bring a goat or a donkey.</p><p>So it goes for the merry little, one-block parade and live nativity scene in Bodega today.</p><p>"It's very loosey-goosey, it's not like a big, orchestrated event," said organizer Abby Killey of Bodega. "People can definitely come as elves, it's not supposed to be somber at all."</p><p>Attendees are encouraged to become participants on this one. Have a goat? Bring it. A miniature pony? It's welcome, too. Learning to play the flute and want to jam out some holiday tunes? Bring it on.</p><p>Just don't bring your dog -- they tend to scare the farm animals.</p><p>The group, many in costume, gathers at the fire house on Bodega Highway and begins the walk at 5 p.m. They proceed around the block. At one point, they stop at Casino Bar &amp; Grill and ask if there is room at the inn.</p><p>Role players open the door, shout "No!", and the parade moves on. The family-friendly parade ends with a bonfire, live music and hot chocolate.</p><p>Killey has already secured some locals to dress up as Mary (both the virgin and mother), Joseph, three wise men, angels, drummer kids and baby Jesus. There is no shepherd just yet, Killey said last week. But that's likely to change by today.</p><p>"Yes, it's a religious holiday, it's a re-enactment of the Christ thing, but it's not too reverent. It will be fairly hilarious," Killey said. "It's just basically a way to use the donkeys and have a parade and sing Christmas carols."</p><p>"If they want to be more nonsecular, as elves or Santa, they are totally welcome to do that," she said. "It's anything goes, just be jolly and happy."</p><p>If you plan on coming, dress up and dress warm, bring a flashlight, a batch of cookies to share and a musical instrument if you play one -- or perhaps even if you don't.</p><p>-- Kerry Benefield</p>