Encinitas CA— The Encinitas Historical Society (EHS) invites the community to attend the 22nd Annual “Lighting of the Heritage Tree” on Friday, December 2 at 406 4th St., Encinitas. Festivities begin at 5 pm with musical entertainment, and the “flipping of the switch” takes place at 6 pm.
The EHS is sponsoring the tree-lighting ceremony with the support of the 101 Artists’ Colony’s Billy Stewart Foundation and generous individual donors. SDG&E and the city of Encinitas are also sponsors of the event. Jim Filanc from Southern Contracting has been working with community members—spearheaded by Louis Ortiz— to bring the Star Pine to life.
Planted in 1950, the beloved tree is now more than 75 feet tall. “It has provided a colorful addition to our night sky for more than 50 years and is savored by many on land and on sea,” says Carolyn Cope, president of the Encinitas Historical Society. The tree is the second recognized heritage tree within the city of Encinitas.
The night air will be filled with music at this special holiday event. “SuperMoon” will perform a medley of Christmas songs including John Lennon’s “Happy Christmas.” “Place in the Choir” will sing seasonal songs, and Park Dale Lane’s Honor Choir, under the direction of Samuel Wilmurt, will present a holiday-inspired program as well. The Historical Society is providing free hot apple cider during the event.
Parking at the Moonlight Beach upper parking lot is recommended for the best viewing of the tree-lighting. For more information, contact Carolyn Cope at (760) 753-4834.