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Community Corner

Patch Picks: South Sound Tree Lightings

The lighting of the city's official holiday tree is a welcome tradition signaling the beginning of the holiday season. Our South Sound cities are well into the throes of readying the celebrations. Here's how the holiday fun stacks up in your neck of the w

 

One of my favorite memories as a young child growing up in Tacoma was to take part in the downtown tree lighting festivities with my family.

My favorite part was when the tree's lights were turned for the very first time. At that moment, I loved hearing the ooh's and ah's of the crowd. I always marveled at how big and how sparkly that tree was.

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I secretly wished that I could have that tree at my house!

But alas, I had to share that beautiful tree with my beloved city. I didn't mind too much. Everyone seemed to enjoy it just as much as I did. Why wouldn't they? The tree lighting symbolized not just the start of things to come, but the heart, hope and fun of the holiday season.

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It also drew our community together.

The South Sound continues to bring together its communities during this special time of year. Not only are city trees being lit, but there are lots of holiday fun and magic to be had, too.

Let's check out some of the cities around here that are doing it up for the start of the holidays.

Lightings are listed chronologically.

 

The 66th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting (Tacoma, Pantages Theater)

Why here: The grand Tacoma tradition this year celebrates 66 years of holiday tree lighting. This free event is open to the general public and all are welcome. For those with kiddos in the mix, you may want to check out the classic children's movie, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, playing at the Pantages Theater just before the tree lighting. Please click on the link above to view information about both events.

When: Saturday, Nov. 26, 6 p.m., Pantages Theater Lobby, free

City of Lakewood Christmas Tree Lighting (Lakewood, City Hall)

Why here: As the City of Lakewood lights its official tree, there will be a number of free activities for the community. Visit with Santa, create a Christmas craft, and enjoy a little holiday entertainment to boot. See the link above for more details about this event.

When: Friday, Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m., free 

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony for the Town of Steilacoom (Steilacoom, Town Hall)

Why here: The historic town of Steilacoom encourages the community to come out and enjoy its annual tree lighting. Businesses and eateries will be open for locals to enjoy the quaint downtown area before and after the ceremony. See the link for more information.

When: Friday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m., tree lighting is free

(University Place, Windmill Village and Market Square)

Why here: This annual celebration is more than just a tree lighting, it's the city's big holiday party. There are activities for the kids, visits with Santa (for people AND pets), entertainment, snacks, a food drive, silent auction, the "Go Local" festival, and so much more. The link above will give you all the information you need to plan your visit.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, see link for specific event times and other information.

Annual Tree Lighting, Food Drive and Holiday Parade (Bonney Lake, Public Safety Building)

Why here: The Bonney Lake community will come out in December to not only light the community tree but to donate food for those in need, enjoy refreshments and visit with Santa. This year also marks a first: A new holiday parade has been added to the line up. Check out the link above to join this festive event.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 6 p.m., free

Holiday Tree Lighting (Gig Harbor, Skansie Park)

Why here: Our friends across the bridge mark their community's holiday kick-off with special treats and refreshments, holiday music, and Santa's arrival. For the finale? The tree lighting of course. Come join the maritime fun. The link above will give you the details you need.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m., free

Here's to looking forward to lighting up our holiday spirits! 

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