Phelan Pinon Hills Community Services District Parks and Recreation presented the Third Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 1, 2023, in Phelan Community Park on a cold, crisp evening that would make a reindeer’s nose run.
Phelan Community Park had been transformed from a daily use public area into a festive winter wonderland complete with elves, holiday movies, hot cocoa, candy canes, our own Christmas Tree, and even Santa Claus! Families enjoyed the many photo opportunities as they strolled the walkways and covered areas with their neighbors. The Honorary Mayor of Phelan, Ashley Lam, would have the privilege of energizing the well-decorated Noble Fir, which was planted only two years ago and is now a permanent feature of the popular recreational area.
“Frosty The Snowman” was substituted for “Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer” at the last moment for “Movie Night,” which kept a large audience occupied while waiting for the tree lighting ceremony and Santa Claus himself. The fabulous Serrano Choir, led by conductor/Choir Director John Dolan, filled the chilly night air with a glorious Christmas routine of Christmas Holiday classics like “The Carol Of The Bells” and “Joy To The World.” There were many fun diversions to occupy all. Hot cocoa and candy canes were generously served by Phelan Pinon Hills Community Services District (PPHCSD) employees. Candy cane light sticks were also being distributed so everyone could shed some light on the Christmas wonderland. The suggestion going around was to stir the hot chocolate with the candy cane for the best results. El Dorado Broadcasting of 106.5 “The Fox” and Cat Country radio stations were there promoting holiday cheer for the event. Promoting goodwill and kindness, the lovely Miss Phelan Court was posing for the community paparazzi and selfies with their warming smiles and friendliness. The bundled-up crowd seemed happy to be huddled in the cold, waiting for the lighting of the holiday tree and the arrival of Santa Claus.
A crowd gathered around the Christmas Tree, which included the Serrano Choir, Miss Phelan Court, PPHCSD employees, and many community members, as Mayor Lam began counting down the tree lighting. Everyone cheered as the night sky was illuminated by a beautifully lit tree, signifying the beginning of the holiday season in Phelan.
Attention soon turned to the anticipated arrival of San Bernardino Fire Station 10’s arrival with their precious cargo, Jolly St. Nick. Delivering Santa involves teamwork and manpower to ensure his safe arrival. Finally, the familiar clanging of the Fire Engine bells of Medical Engine 10 and Medical Ambulance 10 signaled to all that Kris Kringle had arrived to spread his Christmas cheer with a jolly Ho! Ho! Ho! The crowd was ecstatic, knowing their Christmas wishes could now be granted.
It is a welcoming feeling to attend an event that combines public works and the community in such a festive manner. Thank you to the PPHCSD and Phelan Parks and Recreation for promoting good cheer during this holiday season with this now-annual ceremony: Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
