The city's landmark 100-foot Christmas tree will begin shining bright tonight. This will mark the 31st year of a tradition that brings together members of the community for a festive celebration. The evening, starting at 6 p.m. will be packed with a diverse assortment of activities ranging from food trucks serving delicious bites to LED games and a silent disco, as reported by WPTV.
According to The Palm Beach Post, the lighting of the colossal tree will be performed by none other than Santa Claus himself at 7 p.m. The guests didn't just witness the illumination of this towering symbol but also had the chance to step inside and explore animated scenes depicting the history of the "Village by the Sea".
The Yuletide Street Festival will complement the tree-lighting event, offering over 60 vendors who present an array of food, crafts, and games. Moreover, live music and holiday carolers contributed to an ambiance that celebrated the season's spirit. Started as a 50-foot tree bought by the city's Downtown Development Authority in 1993.
Noteworthy is the cost of the aluminum-framed Christmas tree which came to nearly $800,000, as necessitated by the need to replace the original after it was declared structurally unsound in 2017. The investment guarantees the tree's majestic presence each year, supported by the collective effort of volunteers, some of whom have dedicated decades to its assembly, on North Swinton Avenue in Old School Square.
Delray Beach's holiday festivities extend beyond the tree lighting. The city offers a Holiday Village with attractions such as ice skating, a carousel, and mini golf open through Jan. 1, 2025. For those seeking more cultural engagements, the Holiday Edition of First Friday Art Walk will take place, featuring the Yuletide Carolers from 6-8 p.m. along the city's art galleries and cultural arts centers. Maritime enthusiasts can look forward to the Boynton/Delray Holiday Boat Parade, and the annual Holiday Parade is set to bring another layer of yuletide joy to the community. Details on these and other holiday events can be found on the Old School Square website.
