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Community Corner

Patch Picks: South Sound Cities to Deck The Halls and Light Their Trees

Lighting a city's official holiday tree is an annual right of passage to begin the holiday season. Our South Sound cities are readying for the celebration and to welcome holiday fun. See what's happeand ning in your neck of the woods.

One of my favorite memories from my childhood in Tacoma was to take part in the downtown tree-lighting festivities with my family.

My favorite part was when the lights were turned on for the very first time. At that moment, I loved hearing the oooh's and ahhh's of the crowd. I always marveled at how big and how sparkly that tree was.

I secretly wished that I could have that tree at my house!

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But alas, I had to share that beautiful tree with my beloved city. I didn't mind too much; everyone seemed to enjoy it just as much as I did. The crowd and I were happy. Why wouldn't we be? The tree lighting symbolized not just the start of things to come, but the heart, hope and fun of the holiday season.

It also drew our community together.

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The South Sound continues to bring together its communities during this special time of year. Not only are city trees being lit, but there are lots of holiday fun and magic to be had, too.

Let's check out some of the cities around here that are doing it up to kick off the holiday season.

Lightings are listed chronologically.

The 66th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting  (Tacoma, Pantages Theater)

Why here: The grand Tacoma tradition of the holiday-tree lighting celebrates 66 years. This free event is open to the general public. For those with kiddos in the mix, you may want to check out the classic children's movie "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" playing at the Pantages Theater just before the tree lighting.

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, Pantages Theater lobby; free

City of Lakewood Christmas Tree Lighting  (Lakewood City Hall)

Why here: As the City of Lakewood lights its official tree, there will be a number of free activities for the community. Visit with Santa, create a Christmas craft and enjoy a little holiday entertainment to boot.

When: 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2; free

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony for the Town of Steilacoom  (Steilacoom Town Hall)

Why here: The historic town of Steilacoom will be doing its annual tree lighting and encourages the community to come out and enjoy. Businesses and eateries will be open for locals to enjoy the quaint downtown before and after the ceremony.

When: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2; tree lighting is free

 (Windmill Village and Market Square)

Why here: This annual celebration is more than just a tree lighting; it's the city's big holiday party. Partake in activities for the kids, visits with Santa (for people and pets), entertainment, snacks, a food drive, silent auction and more.

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, see link for specific event times and other information.

Annual Tree Lighting, Food Drive and Holiday Parade  (Bonney Lake Public Safety Building)

Why here: The Bonney Lake community will come out in December to not only light the community tree but also to donate food for those in need, enjoy refreshments and visit with Santa. This year also marks a first: a new holiday parade has been added to the lineup.

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3; free

Holiday Tree Lighting (Gig Harbor, Skansie Park)

Why here: Our friends across the bridge mark their community's holiday kick-off with a special treats and refreshments, holiday music and Santa's arrival. And the finale? The tree lighting, of course.

When: 5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3; free

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