The holiday spirit was out in full force on Saturday, December 4, as community members joined together in honor of Portage, Indiana’s second annual holiday tree lighting ceremony.
Families came out to celebrate and enjoy the festivities, such as meeting Santa, eating candy canes and cookies, and drinking hot cocoa, joining in song with Santa and enjoying one another’s company as the twinkling lights illuminated Portage City Hall.
“My team and I have been trying the best we could to get people excited for the upcoming holidays,” said Sue Lynch, Mayor of Portage. “We have house decorating contests going on and the Chamber of Commerce has invited local businesses to decorate the front of their businesses for the holiday. We really want the City of Portage to be lit up and looking very Christmas-y. In fact, the tree that’s here today was in the police department for many, many years. I wanted the tree outside where people could gather and take pictures with their family. I just think that’s what Christmas is all about – families and being together. City Hall is going to shine today and all throughout the holidays.”
After the tree lighting, many continued visiting with Santa and sharing about their Christmas lists.
“We were excited to have Santa here and all the residents of the city to come out and witness the tree being lit so we could kick off the holiday season,” said Stephan Summers, community member and event planning committee member. “We encourage folks to look for future events. Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, everyone!”
The tree lighting ceremony was the perfect way for Portage to ring in the winter season and leave attendees with high spirits, holiday cheer and excitement for Santa.
For more information, visit City of Portage’s website at www.portagein.gov.