CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Clear skies blessed the 18^th tree lighting ceremony in Carmichael Park last week. With COVID regulations in force, the festival became a drive-through event.

As one of the final civic duties in her 16-year District 3 tenure, Supervisor Susan Peters performed tree-lighting honors. “It’s a different sort of Christmas this year, where we can’t all be together,” the retiring VIP acknowledged.  “I’ve had the honor of turning on these lights for many years. This year my Christmas wish is that everyone should stay healthy and happy.” With efficiency of long practice, Peters flipped the switch to ignite thousands of fairy lights on park trees. Absent was Santa Claus, group caroling, snow machines and cheering children.

For Christmas lovers, 2020 may be remembered as the Grinch year, with conferences on Santa’s knee nixed. Nevertheless, 200 kid-filled vehicles participated in the streamlined Carmichael Park District event.  Drivers maintained a sedate 3 mph crawl on the park road and volunteers passed giveaways – hot chocolate sachets were among treats -- through car windows.

“It wasn’t the celebration we traditionally plan,” said recreation supervisor Sharlene Lal. “We tried to come up with something to make the tree-lighting special. Next year we hope things will be back to normal -- with big crowds, live music and a chance for kids talk to Santa.”

Car crawl sponsors included: Carmichael Parks Foundation; Mission Oaks Recreation & Park District; Kiwanis Club of Carmichael; Carmichael Improvement District; Carmichael Food Closet.

Christmas illuminations may be viewed at the park frontage (Fair Oaks Boulevard) every night until the end of December.

*The Carmichael Park District invites the community to show its holiday spirit by decorating homes in time for the holidays! Contest categories include: Best Curb Appeal, Best Indoor and Best Overall.

Deadline to enter is Sunday, December 20. Email photo entries to [email protected]