Alive with songs and illuminated with smiles, Broomfield's annual tree lighting has become a part of many families' holiday traditions.
The tree lighting, which included performances from school choirs and a cheer-inducing helicopter arrival of Santa Claus, celebrated its 32nd year Friday night. Hundreds of attendees bundled their children in festive Santa hats and warm coats to greet the holiday season with handfuls of kettle corn, a glimpse of the symbolic tree lighting ceremony and a chance to sit on Santa's lap.
"No matter what the weather is, people always come out for the tree lighting," said City Councilman Sam Taylor, who sang carols with other city staff and their families.
As Mayor Pat Quinn led children in a countdown to light the tree in front of the George Di Ciero City and County Building, newcomers to the event said they would likely add the tree lighting to their list of holiday traditions.
"I'm really impressed with what Broomfield has done," said Mari Ann James, who moved to Broomfield from Seattle this year with her family, including three small children. Her son, 5-year-old Beckham, was eager to to ask Santa for some musical instruments.
Jeff and Angie Carlson, who have lived in Broomfield for years, said they also were first-timers to the event. They dressed their Parson Russell Terrier, Pickle, in a Christmas-themed sweater and came to watch their daughter, Courtney, perform in the Mountain View Elementary School sign language choir. The group signed the words to upbeat versions of holiday songs such as "The Little Drummer Boy" and "I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas."
"I knew when I got to fourth grade that I wanted to do sign language," said Courtney, who was delighted to use her new sign language skills to talk more easily with friends who were deaf and hard of hearing.
Emerald and Coyote Ridge Elementary schools, the Yule Tiders and the Broomfield Civic Chorus also entertained
SIGN OF THE SEASON: The Mountain View Elementary Sign Language Choir performs at the Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony at the George Di Ciero City and County Building on Friday. ( David R. Jennings )
guests with festive songs, along with instrumental tunes from Suzuki violin students.Samantha Conradie, a fifth-grader in the Mountain View sign language choir, laughed and danced with friends as each musical act took the stage.
"Santa landing in the helicopter was the coolest part," she said.
Santa's dramatic arrival in a helicopter was a true crowd-pleaser for children, who were full of oohs and aahs as the speedy helicopter hovered over their heads, then safely landed to drop off its VIP. Rotors of the Rockies provided the helicopter.
As Santa made his way to the stage, a crowd of excited kids trailed behind him.
"I've got a 'nice' list, and you're all on it," he reassured children as they lined up to sit on his lap.
Families awaiting an audience with Santa said the tree lighting was a nice addition to their holiday traditions. While some families described their trips the Butterfly Pavilion's Living Lights display or performances of "The Nutcracker," fifth-grader Ashley Becker said her neighbors in the Brandywine subdivision have a tradition all their own. The neighborhood decorates an outdoor tree together.
"The littlest kid gets to put the star at the top," she said.
Contact Staff Writer Megan Quinn at 303-410-2649 or quinnm@broomfieldenterprise.com
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