Santee’s
annual Holiday Lighting Celebration is scheduled for Nov. 18 from 5:30-8:30
p.m. at Santee Trolley Square Shopping Center.
“It’s the 14th
year of the event and we’re still adding new attractions,” said
Bree Humphrey, special events supervisor with the Santee Community Services
Dept.
In addition to a popular snow hill for kids to
slide down with plastic saucer sleds, there will be a snowflake-making machine
to delight children and parents alike.“We’re transforming the mall into a winter wonderland,” said Humphrey.
There’s no
admission charge. Most of the
attractions are free, including craft booths, an inflatable bounce house, train
ride and petting zoo. Horse-drawn
trolley and wagon rides also are free for the first time this year. There will also be a face painter, balloon
twister and caricature artists to enhance the fun.
There will
be booths to browse and tasty treats from local eateries, including free hot
cocoa. Children can also confide their wish lists to Santa Claus, who will pose
for studio-quality photos available for purchase.
At the
amphitheater, the popular Bayou Brothers will provide live music with a holiday
twist on the Cal Coast Credit Union Stage.
The
tree-lighting ceremony, which begins at 6:15 p.m. will include a brief
sparklers display.
Local
merchants and community organizations use the event as an opportunity to reach
out to the community.
“Santee’s
Holiday Lighting is one of our very favorite events that we look forward to and
are proud to be a part of every year,” said Rosanna Baluca, Santee branch
manager for California Coast Credit Union.
“It’s a
wonderful way for families to spend an evening enjoying the spirit of the
holiday season and it truly offers something for every age,” she said. “For us
at California Coast Credit Union, it’s
always such a fun-filled evening visiting with our friends and neighbors in
East County and an opportunity to support this great community.”
Roughly
6,000 people attend the event and parking is limited. Walking, carpooling, or
getting there by bicycle or the MTS trolley, is highly recommended.
The event is
sponsored by Waste Management, City of Santee, California Coast Credit Union,
KIMCO, Fireworks America, Rise City Church, and Daphne’s California Greek and
Allegiance Heating & Air Conditioning.
