Tree lighting and laser show launch Christmas season in La Center
LA CENTER — Hundreds of La Center residents gathered in downtown La Center Sunday evening to start off the holiday season with the city’s annual Christmas Festival.
The evening revolved around the traditional lighting of the La Center Christmas tree, and an appearance by Santa Claus.
Prior to the tree lighting, visitors mingled in downtown La Center and were entertained by local bands and choirs. Bands from La Center Middle School and La Center High school played Christmas music, and the schools’ choirs also entertained visitors.
Additionally, a brass ensemble composed of both middle and high schoolers and directed by La Center High School music teacher James Cameron and La Center Middle School music teacher Perry Calabrese helped the crowds get into the holiday spirit.
The arrival of Santa Claus in La Center meant that the countdown to the tree lighting could begin. Once the tree was lit, crowds were awed by a five minute laser show.
In previous years, the tree lighting was accompanied by a fireworks display, but this year the fireworks were replaced by a laser show presented by local La Center company Laseronics.
Once the tree lighting and laser show had concluded, children could have a much anticipated meeting with Santa Claus.
Throughout the evening, attendees received cookies and hot cocoa to help ward off the evening chill.
