Tree lighting kicks off season
Frosty dances with two lovely ladies before the event kicked off, being a firm favorite even poseing with families infront of the Christmas Tree for holiday photos (Erin Jusseaume/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
Everyone sat in silence taking in the tree and all it’s beautiful lights (Erin Jusseaume/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
The Paradise Elementary School Preservation committee kicked off the Christmas Tree-Lighting event last week.
The committee gathered together for the small community to begin the festive season with good company and carols. All gathered around a tree donned in Christmas ornaments and festive lights.
“We wanted to do a Christmas tree lighting because no one was doing one,” said Karen Thorsen.
Local Karvel Pickering was the official emcee for the nights festivities as well as head caroler.
The night kicked off at 6 p.m. with residents and event-goers flowing through the doors right on the dot.
As people found a chair and grabbed a hot chocolate or cider before settling in for an easy festive night ahead; they mingled with friends and extended family with light music helping create a welcoming atmosphere.
“We’re expecting around 80 to 90 people to come down,” said Thorsen.
As the night began, committee members were seen ducking into the back room to bring out more chairs for people to be able to sit.
Not only was the event catered for the adults, the kids also were greeted with some special surprises.
Frosty came in to the events hall to great all the kids and even take some pictures with the ‘big’ kids as well.
A relaxed atmosphere also allowed for kids to mingle with friends as well and keep quietly entertained with visitors such as Frosty the Snow Man.
Frosty was seen dancing with a couple of young ladies to the ever favorite Jingle Bells during the evening as well.
Then came the moment were it was time to light the Christmas Tree that stood as tall as the room itself.
After a brief moment of delay from the lights themselves, the room was lit up with a truly festive tree which brought a round of applause.
While the crowd joined in with Pickering for a few more carols, the audience was then invited to stand up and share their favorite Christmas memory.
Just after, then saw the biggest surprise of the night for the little kids, Santa stopped by to say hi and hear all the Christmas wishes.
“The school use to have a wonderful Christmas concert, and now that we are in charge of preserving the school and it’s history we thought it was a great idea to start a wonderful new tradition. The community is always throwing support to what we are trying to achieve, so what better way to say thanks then having the tree lighting tonight and a visit from Santa,” said Thorsen.