The Alpine Community Christmas Tree glowed with lights on Nov. 24 for the first time in recent years.
A crowd of people from around the area were delighted by the three-story-tall tree outside the Alpine Woman’s Club in the center of town.
The club’s headquarters, which was already shining with holiday lights, is the historic Alpine Town Hall at 2156 Alpine Blvd.
“This is very festive and it’s just so nice,” said Alpine resident Elisabeth Sherwood. “What I like most is meeting some of the locals. I feel like I want to hug everybody.”
Presented by the Alpine Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce, the event was another example of businesses, organizations and individuals coming together for the common good.
“The Chamber is excited to revive the traditional tree lighting ceremony after an extended absence,” said Chamber Executive Director Alex Ward. “After hearing from the community that the event was sorely missed, the Chamber’s directors resolved to make it a reality in 2018.
“We partnered with the Woman’s Club to decorate a tree right in the middle of town so everyone could see and enjoy it. We look forward to many more years of this great event!”
Pastor Brendan Prout of Alpine Christian Fellowship played the guitar as he sang carols during the celebration. Everyone joined in for “Silent Night.”
The tree and the venue were provided by the Alpine Woman’s Club.
Contractor Andrew Darnelle trimmed the tree with silver and gold-colored lights from the Chamber. Angie Brookshire of the Alpine Community Network supplied ornaments.
Amanda Meth of Alpine brought her sons, Austin, 12, and A.J., 7, to enjoy the fun.
“We have all our Christmas decorations up at home,” A.J. said.
The crowd counted down to the moment the tree lights flipped on, then burst into applause.
“I have to say, I’ve been doing a lot of work in my yard,” a woman said with admiration. “That’s a lot of work.”
In the spirit of the season, the 20th Annual Gift Bag Drive by Jeff Campbell of San Diego Estates collected donated items and money to help others.
Albertsons provided Christmas cookies for the special occasion. Alpine Garden & Gifts had trees for sale and Café 99 sold hot coffee and cocoa to warm the evening.
Santa Claus chatted with children. Pets visited with everyone. Youngsters were attracted to gentle Alpine Sunrise Goatoga kid goats, which sported holiday attire.
“They’re very social,” Diane Melvin said about her little herd. “I love this evening.”