by Noella Noelophile®
And–here it is. The final installment in our Christmas, 2015 roundup of where to see tree lightings.
Again, this is only a small sampling of all the fantastic celebrations going on at this time of the year. But I hope I’ve shown you at least a couple you’d like to add to your calendar.
LOS ANGELES
(Photo courtesy of Juan Carlos Chan/L.A. Dept. Rec and Parks, and used with permission.)
December 3, 2015, 5:15 pm – Biltmore Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony
You’ve seen the historic Millennium Biltmore Los Angeles in a number of movies. Its ornate 1923 inlaid ceilings and lacy railings are more than breathtaking.
Now, you get to see it in a Christmas context.
Classic carolers, free photo opportunities (bring your camera) in their historic Hollywood-Era backdrop, and free cookies and sparkling cider will be part of the festivities. One caveat here–their website warns us that “parking rates may vary”. In our past experience, downtown L.A. parking can be scarce at Christmastime. You’ll want to arrive early, and perhaps check several lots nearby.
The Millennium Biltmore’s Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony runs from 5:15 to 6:30 pm, Thursday, December 3rd. The MIllennium Biltmore Los Angeles is located at 506 South Grand Avenue, between West 5th and West 6th Streets. And if you take their Olive Street exit, after the tree-lighting ceremony, you’ll find yourself at Pershing Square Ice Rink–which is open until 9:30 on Thursday evenings, and offers skate sessions from now through January 18th!
(Photo courtesy of Maurice Turner, and used with permission.)
ANAHEIM
December 5, 2015, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm – Anaheim’s 21st Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village.
A 50-foot living redwood is the star of the evening, with dancers performing around it and a special guest making an appearance to throw the switch.
But, you’ll want to be in Downtown Anaheim, on Center Street Promenade, long before that.
(Photo courtesy of Maurice Turner, and used with permission.)
The Holiday Village, spanning the entire length of Center Street Promenade, opens at 10:00 am. Crafts, a play area featuring real snow, and musical performances by local and community groups, throughout the day, will all be part of the fun. This Christmas, there are brand-new Downtown Anaheim shops for browsing for a one-of-a-kind gift, as well as an International Food Fair, kids’ train rides and free photos with Santa.
Then, at 5:45, comes the event everyone’s been waiting for.
(Photo courtesy of Maurice Turner, and used with permission.)
A procession down Center Street Promenade, led by the Combined Choirs of the Anaheim Union High School District, will make its way towards the tree. After a special musical performance by the Combined Choirs and the Anaheim Ballet, a surprise guest will light the tree, ushering in Christmas, 2015.
An interesting note about the giant redwood is that it’s a Christmas gift! Disney Resorts planted it at the end of Center Street Promenade, 19 years ago. It’s grown about a foot every year since, according to Downtown Anaheim Association Event Coordinator Devon Reeves.
Have fun, and Merry Christmas!
Anaheim’s 21st Annual Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village happens Saturday, December 5th, from 10 am to 7 pm on 205 West Center Street Promenade, between South Clementine and South Lemon Streets. Admission and parking are free.