Despite the rain, the Milpitas Tree Lighting Ceremony went off without a hitch Dec. 1. The community came together this cold December night to kick off the holiday season with entertainment and treats.
Upon entering the Milpitas Community Center, the community was welcomed with an event pamphlet and a candy cane.
Mayor Jose Esteves initiated the holiday cheer by giving a speech to the overflowing civic center. The event, which was meant to be held outdoors, was moved inside due to rain.
“Despite the last minute changes we made to move indoors, we should be grateful for the rain,” commented Esteves.
The night began with a Charlie Brown tree lighting play that included young kids dancing from many local Milpitas dance studios, and a tap dance musical from community parents. In between the dancing there was a four-girl a capella group who sang traditional Christmas carols.
The public could enjoy a multitude of activities throughout the community center rooms. A long line of children awaited Santa in a lights-filled room. The Community Band filled the halls of the senior center with holiday music.
The city was in a giving mood as there were free gifts given to every attendee. A gift bag included a 60th anniversary Christmas ornament, a chocolate Minute Man, and a card. In the senior center, balloon candy canes were handed out to children and the community warmed themselves with free coffee or hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies.
Inside the civic center, the entertainment continued late into the night with performances by Ballet Folklorico, Kawailehua Hula Ohana and the Nguyen Dance Company.
This marked the last event for the city’s 60th anniversary celebration.
