Delray Beach kicks off the holiday season with tree lighting
Since the event's start in 1993, it has become one of the largest and most celebrated holiday events in Palm Beach County. (WPEC)
DELRAY BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — For the 29th year, the iconic 100-foot Christmas tree is shining bright at Old School Square Park.
It's a beloved tradition. According to the Delray Beach Parks and Recreation Department, the tree lighting brings in people from all over to welcome the holidays.
"It truly is a city-wide event. Everyone wants to make it special for everyone who comes down to visit," said Nan Krushinski, Delray Beach Parks and Recreation Special Events Administrator.
The Yuletide Street Fair will also take place throughout the tree lighting. Event-goers will be able to walk around, shop, play games, and enjoy a concert and for all those looking to capture the moment via camera, there are plenty of photo opportunities.
"We have about nine or 10 blocks this year between the grounds and up in Atlantic and Swinton and Second Avenue. And so we really have it's spread out so it's comfortable for everyone to be here and just enjoy the festivities," said Krushinski.
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There were food trucks on Swinton Ave., over 60 vendors down Atlantic Ave. and Pineapple Grove, three entertainment stages, and more.
The 100-foot Christmas Tree is made up of 2,988 stainless steel bolts, 3,114 branches, 12,456 watts, 15,570 pounds of foliage, 18,000 ornaments, 24,000 pounds of frame, and 217,980 LED lights. It is no easy task to put together, the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority says it takes a lot of volunteers.
“We've had 1,000s of man hours come in, contributed, and donated as a service to our community to build the celebration for all of our residents and visitors that are here," said Laura Simon, Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority Executive Director.
CBS12 News even went inside the tree, where you can get an up-close look at all the festive displays local businesses put together.
The Parks and Recreation Department says the lights, food, music, and Santa are all a part of the atmosphere.
“Santa comes with Mrs. Claus. They come at seven o'clock. They like to tree they see Santa pull up against some of the fire trucks. He lights it with his magic candy cane. He comes down and he greets everybody,” said Krushinski.
CBS12 News used to bring Santa in via the CBS Sky 12 helicopter to light the iconic tree.
Since the event's start in 1993, it has become one of the largest and most celebrated holiday events in Palm Beach County.
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In 2016, the Delray Beach tree was dubbed "the best Christmas tree in Florida" by Travel and Leisure.
The event ran from 6-9 p.m. Santa officially lit the tree around 7 p.m.
There will be events all throughout December in downtown Delray. You can find out what's happening here.