Community Corner
A Little Rain Couldn't Spoil the Holiday Cheer
The Cotati tree lighting wasn't as dry as people hoped, but the community was still out to support the occasion.
With the Rancho Cotate High School Music Boosters on hand to provide the musical entertainment, a few hundred local residents braved light rains to enjoy the annual tree lighting event in La Plaza Park.
The Three Nights of Festive Fun in Cotati kicked off with the Holiday Tree Lighting event, complete with a visit from Santa Claus. The crowd was already gathered by 6 p.m. and awaiting entertainment.
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While the park was wet and muddy, the mood of the assembled crowd was positive as the choir started to sing Christmas carols and both kids and adults enjoyed hot cocoa, coffee, and cookies served up by volunteers. The City of Cotati sponsored this fun family event.
A mild rain started to fall around after a few songs, but it wasn't enough of a detractor to the people who had gathered to celebrate the tree lighting.
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Along with the choir, the Rancho Marching Band took to the stage to play a few holiday classics while kids and parents took refuge under umbrellas and the trees from the sporadic rain. While many mingled and waited patiently for Santa to arrive, others took their kids by the free Bookmobile where kids were able to pick out 2 free books each.
The rain drizzled lightly while the band played on when suddenly from the street arose such a clatter. A fire truck with sirens appeared and the crowd turned to see what was the matter. With a honk and a wave Santa had arrived, courtesy of his Rancho Adobe red sleigh.
Mayor Susan Harvey welcomed him to the stage while his elves assembled and kids surged to the front. Soon enough the countdown began and he did the honors to light the tree as people cheered.
Of course Santa's job was not quite done for the evening. A large chair sat near the tree on stage and with his elf helpers at the ready, Santa was ready. A line quickly formed with kids eagerly waiting to take a turn on his lap to ask for what they want the most this holiday year.
In the end, the weather was no match for the holiday merriment in La Plaza Park.
Did you stop by for the tree lighting? What did you think? Tell us in the comments!
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