By Will French
The annual Christmas tree lighting in Benicia takes place on December 5th of this year, starting at 6:30. The event takes place at the end of first street, right next to the pier. The tree lighting ceremony dates back decades with different trees and different locations around the downtown area.
Most stores like Fox and Fawn, Pacifica Pizza, and Bookshop Benicia are open on this night, experiencing very busy environments. Some stores have stands outside with goods like hot chocolate, popcorn, hot apple cider, and candy canes.
According to Visit Benicia, it states that, “The length of First Street will be closed to traffic, allowing visitors to stroll the street, enjoying shopping, singing, and holiday cheer!” This allows the people of Benicia to fully experience the night.
While the event is happening, the school band plays Christmas songs for the people to enjoy. Madi Andrada is the band president, and she is very excited to perform. “There are two big performances with the whole band, and we will be playing popular Christmas songs. In between performances we break up into small groups called caroling groups, and that’s when we play older Christmas songs, like hymns,” she said.
The downtown area is very crowded, with lots of families coming down to experience the beauty of the tree.
Overall, it is a very fun experience and I love performing Christmas music. One of my favorite things is to dance and give out candy canes during the performances. The music that they play really gets me into the Christmas mood. Every year I go, they are always amazing. The lights are spectacular on the palm trees. The walk down feels magical, the Christmas light illuminates the night sky.
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