Fierce winds did not keep islanders away from getting into the festive spirit during the official tree lighting. The event was organized by the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce and took place in front of the Christmas Tree, planted by the American Legion in 1990 in dedication to MIA’s of all wars, by Wells Fargo at the corner of Spring Street and Argyle. Traffic was temporarily blocked so the community could gather around the tree.

Chamber Director Becki Day kicked the event off by thanking OPALCO for assisting with the lights and acknowledging Casey Baisch, who had strung the tree lights for years. She also thanked many others who took part in the event.

Both firefighters and deputies were on scene, as Santa, played by Bruce Martin, lit the tree while the crowd cheered.

The elementary music group known as the Treblemakes Choir sang a few Christmas carols. As part of a request by the high school art students, the Treblemakers sang “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The request sprang from the art students displaying their work at the San Juan Sculpture Park in an exhibit themed the Twelve Days of Christmas.

San Juan Singers director Angel Michaels led participants in a few more sing-along carols like Silent Night and Jingle Bells. The crowd kept warm with hot cocoa and treats from Riptide and Sweet Retreat. After the caroling was finished, more activities were waiting at the Grange, including photos with Santa and an array of arts and crafts organized by Island Rec.

Santa on his way to light the Christmas tree.