The La Verne community gathered for its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony Monday evening.
Mayor Tim Hepburn kicked off the event by introducing the City Council and Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Juan Fuentes.
The event also included the Bonita High School Chamber singers, who performed holiday classics including “Ding Dong Merrily On High,” and “Jingle Bells,” among others as the audience sang along.
No such city event would be complete without an early-season visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who hitched a ride on a La Verne fire truck to make it on time for the local event.
Jane Miller, a Bonita High School senior, said it was fun to see Santa come out and greet the children.
After the Clauses made their appearance, the 10-second countdown to the tree lighting began.
“I love the unity that is showcased within our community and how much our town supports each other,” said Ryan Yoder, director of choral music at Bonita High School. “It’s a great time to celebrate each other and the wonderful things our city is doing.”
Everyone cheered as the Christmas tree lit up in blue, green and red Christmas lights.
Many stuck around at the end or photo ops with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
—Hailey Martinez
Hailey Martinez is a junior journalism major with a photography minor. She is a staff writer for the Campus Times and a staff photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine.
Kaylie Ennis is a senior photography major and a staff photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine. Originally from Washington state, she enjoys cars and nature photography.
