Snow at Buena Park City Hall
By Loreen Berlin
Santa appeared Friday evening at Buena Park City Hall as gentle snowflakes descended on those in attendance.
The switch was flipped by City Council members to light the annual Christmas tree at Plaza Buena Park City Hall, and the stage came alive with musical performances of Ballet Folklorico and “Definitely Dickens Holiday Carolers,” just moments before Engine No. 61 from the Orange County Fire Station on La Palma Avenue delivered that special guest in a red suit and hat topped with white fir—it was Ole Saint Nick himself—preparing to listen to the children’s wishes, accompanied by Mrs. Claus.
The theme this year for the 6th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Toy Drive was “Christmas Is Love,” under the direction of the Buena Park Civic Theatre.
There were vocalists and storytelling, all emceed by Mark Sauceda, director of the Senior Center. Additional guests included Knights from the Medieval Times and pirates from Pirates Dinner Adventure, accompanied by lovely princesses.
Food items were available for purchase from a taco truck in the parking lot; the city’s own Candy Bar was onsite and other special treats to awaken the holiday taste palate.
Those attending were asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy or gift for children to help with a Toy Drive that will benefit local charities for children.
All of the festivities began to ring in the sights and sounds of Christmas, including a photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the foot of the Christmas tree.
Tree lighting goes way back in history. As we know the Christmas tree today, Germany is credited with starting the tradition when Christians brought trees into their homes and decorated them with small candles that would be lit nightly.
It is believed that Martin Luther, the 16th century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree; for as he walked to his home on a winter evening, thinking about a sermon, he was struck by the brilliance of the stars twinkling amid the evergreen trees and so to recapture the scene for his family, he placed a tree in the main room of his home and lighted candles on the branches.
Early people also placed evergreen boughs of pine, spruce and fir, over their doors and in their windows in belief of good health.
