BRADENTON BEACH – The Christmas season will be sparked with the illumination of more than 20,000 lights on a 42’ Christmas tree on Saturday, Nov. 18.
The Light Up Bridge Street family event from 5:30-8:30 p.m. is free. In addition to the tree lighting at dark, there will be caroling, pictures with Santa, face-painting, hot chocolate and a screening of the movie, “Elf.”
The holiday event is sponsored by the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the city of Bradenton Beach and local merchants.
“A special guest will flip the single switch to light up the small town with a big tree,” according to a press release from Sea-renity Beach Spa owner Amanda Escobio Ryan.
Attendees will gather in the post office parking lot at 116 Bridge St. for a crowd sing-along hosted by the Sweet Adelines Magic of Manatee, an award-winning a cappella women’s chorus.
The evening’s festivities will also include raffle tickets for Turning Points of Bradenton and an ornament walkabout. Pictures with Santa will allow children to share their holiday wishes, keepsake photographs will be available and volunteers will do face painting.
Attendees are advised to bring a chair and blanket for the movie, along with canned food donations for the Manatee Food Bank. Popcorn, hot chocolate and other refreshments will be available nearby.
“The lighting of the Christmas tree is a moment of enchantment and tradition, illuminating the holiday season with a radiant glow. As the sun sets and darkness descends, families and communities gather in anticipation. With a flick of the switch, the tree bursts into a breathtaking display of twinkling lights, casting a magical aura over the surroundings,” according to the website, lovebradentonbeach.com. “It symbolizes unity, hope and the spirit of giving. The shared experience fosters a deep sense of togetherness, reminding us of the joys of love, generosity and the enduring magic of Christmas.”
The event will also honor the late Bradenton Beach Mayor John Shaughnessy, who passed away on May 4. Shaughnessy was a Bradenton Beach commissioner for six years, vice mayor and served as mayor from 2011-13.
“As twilight descends, we gather to honor a community pillar, Mayor John Shaughnessy. Recognizing his unwavering dedication and transformative leadership, we celebrate a leader who embodies the spirit of unity. Mayor Shaughnessy, a beacon guiding us through challenges, is a testament to the strength of our town. Join us in expressing gratitude for his commitment, acknowledging his contributions that have shaped our community. Together, let’s illuminate the night in honor of a leader whose legacy inspires us to build a brighter, more connected future for all,” the website says.
