Grand Terrace Lights Up for Christmas

GRAND TERRACE>> With many booths, activities for kids and a visit from Santa Claus, numerous people from the community gathered together for the annual Light up Grand Terrace Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 6, in the Azure Hills Church parking lot. Before the Christmas tree was lit, those in attendance also got to decorate Christmas cookies, make doilies to hang on a tree and play games at some of the booths. The event featured food trucks and booths from local organizations and businesses. Members of the Grand Terrace Woman’s Club were also present and sold tickets for a Christmas Tree raffle. Richard Loder, Grand Terrace Resident and community member, was the emcee for the evening, announcing the performances and keeping the crowd excited. Later, the Grand Terrace High School Marching Band performed a few songs and ushered in Santa Claus who was available to take pictures with the children. Grand Terrace Council Member Bill Hussey said the evening was a wonderful event that is great for the city. “(I’m) happy that everyone can come out here together, have fellowship and highlight their city, be proud of the city with this (event),” Hussey said. “The high school band is great, the volunteers have put it all together and this is great what they did.” Attendees also had the chance to enjoy live entertainment from various groups and organizations such as the The REC Center cheer team. “What a great job the REC Center staff and kids have done on their performance,” Hussey said. “I would like to thank Azure Hills Church for opening the doors for the city and having this event on their property. What a great community we live in.” Teri Rios attended the event for the first time with her daughter Katt Rios and Katt’s son, Leland Jax, who recently turned 1 years old. “Everyone is really nice and we are getting a feel for Christmas,” Katt said. "This is (Leland’s) first event that we have taken him to.” Teri said she was pleasantly surprised to see many people attend the event and have a good time. As the night continued, Loder helped countdown along with the community for the lighting of the Christmas tree. With her “magic” wand, Mayor Darcy McNaboe pointed to the tree at the end of the countdown and the lights illuminated the tree. With cheers and excitement, the community took pictures of the tree and continued to enjoy the evening.