Light Shines Through the Rain

They put their boots on, layered on the sweaters and grabbed their umbrellas because no amount of rain was going to stop this parade. On November 29, 2018, the City of Grand Terrace hosted their 4th Annual Light Up Grand Terrace Event at Azure Hills Church from 4 to 9 pm. In addition to the tree lighting, the event was jam-packed with holiday-inspired booths, great food and entertainment. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by local food truck vendors serving up hot meals and delicious carnival snacks. In the distance stood the Christmas tree, decorated and ready for the night’s big lighting display. Minute after minute passed and along with every passing minute, dark-unsettling clouds inched their way in closer and closer over the city gathering. Earlier in the day, city officials announced that most of the event would be moved inside due to the weather and that a large covered space would be placed so that family and friends could still gather to witness the tree lighting. Just minutes before the scheduled tree lighting, a downpour of rain flooded the streets and quickly after, thunder hammered and lightning struck- mother nature put on her own light show. Despite all this- the cold, the relentless rain, thunder and lighting, the residents of Grand Terrace made their way outside and stood resilient. “Five, four, three, two, one!” shouted the crowd. All eyes glanced over the tree following the glowing multi-colored bulbs, shiny ornaments, glittered ribbon, wrapped presents and the accompanying huge candy canes and lollipops. The pure radiance and splendor of the tree filled the night sky with the wonderment of Christmas and made the moment well worth waiting for. The night was far from over, however. Back inside, the Grand Terrace crowd continued their celebration with the many Christmas craft and holiday-oriented booths and entertainment. From crafting to cookie decorating, children could completely dive into the Christmas season. Guests were also treated to a live marching band serenading them with Christmas music and young ballet dancers performing a routine with ribbon. The night would not be complete without a visit from St. Nicholas himself. Arriving at the tree lighting in a siren-blaring firetruck, Santa made his way through the crowd, greeting the children and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.