By: Jordan Park and Sam Gruetter

Local News and Sports Editor

Decked out in holiday decorations, Los Gatos began the month of December with its annual tree lighting and Christmas parade. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony attracts crowds to the heart of downtown Los Gatos. A resident is selected to press a button, illuminating the plethora of lights strung throughout one of the very oldest trees in the park, marking the official start to the holiday season. The event began at 5 PM. on Dec. 1 at the Town Plaza Park, where residents gathered to wait for the tree lighting at six. The evening included a performance from the Fisher Middle School choir, a light show, a library story walk, and pictures with Santa following the ceremony. 

This year marks the 100th anniversary of this tradition; the History Club of Los Gatos, who donated the tree, was featured throughout the event. Many members were in attendance, including Club President Diana Crawford. The permanent tree in the park today was planted there in March of 1923. Before it retained permanent residence, the club annually cut and brought a tree down into the Plaza from the Santa Cruz mountains. The Mercury News described the club’s plan for the tree when they initially planted it: “At the time of planting, the club promised that the tree would grow in size with the population of Los Gatos, which in 1920 stood at 2,317.” The tree is a testament to the strong sense of community within the Los Gatos area, and the History Club has a significant role in fostering this closeness. 

The annual holiday parade took place the very next morning on December 2. Starting at 11 AM, LG residents took to the streets with their holiday cheer, representing local clubs, schools, businesses, and committees. They traveled down E. Main Street and N. Santa Cruz Ave on festive floats, antique cars, or on foot, many accompanied by their four-legged friends. An announcer located on a balcony of the Los Gatos Penthouse read a message for parade participants as they passed by. Schools presented their marching band and color guard, while local dance companies showcased impressive choreography. Singers and bands performed beloved carols, and even dogs were dressed head to paw in holiday cheer. 

Many residents have been attending the parade for multiple years and now bring friends and family to experience the joyful event. Long-time resident Carol Adams expressed her fondness for the event, stating, “It marks the start of the holiday season for those who grew up marching, dancing, riding in a variety of vehicles and watching the parade. Now, it positively affects the communities around us, providing the opportunity for students of all ages to share their talents and enthusiasm.” The event ended around 1:30 PM, concluding the 67th annual Los Gatos Holiday Parade. 

Be sure to check out the other local festivities, including the Fantasy of Lights attraction at Vasona Park and Wreaths Across America Day!

(Sources: Mercury News, Visit Los Gatos)