Santa prepares to light the tree with members of the City Council. From left, Councilmembers Dawnte' Early, Norma Alcala, and Verna Sulpizio-Hull wearing the black coat. Photo courtesy of City of West Sacramento

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Hundreds of West Sacramento community members gathered in front of City Hall Friday night for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting celebration. Community members were bundled up in cozy, warm clothes, snuggly coats and wrapped in blankets as they visited with friends and neighbors while waiting for the star of the evening to get there. The River City High School Marching Band (River City Regiment) came through, played a quick song and continued on their way.

People enjoyed free hot chocolate, free cookies, arts and crafts, and giveaways for kids of all ages. There were booths lining the street; much more than in years past. Some of them included Yolo Credit Union, ILWU, Local 18 with upcoming candidates Tim Campbell and Leasley Alvarado, Sacramento River Cats with their wheel of prizes, Raley’s, Lighthouse Charter School, West Sac Home Run, West Sac Fire Department, a small family printing business: Belve Designs, and a local children’s book author: Theresa Saechao Rother. There was even a short appearance by Dinger.

Joining members of the West Sacramento Chamber of Commerce, such as President Denise Domke, on stage were our attending City Council members Norma Alcala, Dawte Early West and Verna Sculpizio Hull along with their families. They led the crowd in some Christmas carols while everyone waited for Santa to arrive.

The excitement filled the air when the crowd began to hear the marching band coming back. People knew that they were leading the way for Santa’s arrival. Perched on top of the big fire truck, Santa had arrived. West Sacramento Police maintained the crowd so that Santa could make his way to the stage. Council and Chamber members led the crowd in a countdown, and Santa, along with a couple of helpers, flipped the giant switch to light the city’s 85-foot Christmas tree. After the lighting of the tree, the crowd gathered inside for free pictures with Santa.