NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.—As the sun was setting, “Jingle Bells” played from a small stage as hundreds gathered to celebrate the 32nd Lighting of the Bay on Nov. 25.
“We want to wish everyone a happy holiday season here at the Newport Dunes as we await to turn the lights on!” an announcer chimed in.
The pleasant scent of Christmas trees filled the entry area of the annual event as celebrants strolled through rows of garlands and fresh Noble, Nordmann, and Douglas firs that were hand-picked from Oregon, according to the Newport Dunes Resort’s website.
“No, Santa is not here yet, sweetie,” a father of two told his toddler sitting in the car as he multitasked fastening a fresh tree to the top of his SUV. “We’ll come back in a little bit once he gets here.”
Little did the girl know, Santa Claus had already pulled up in a red truck just 20 yards away.
The evening was filled with family-friendly activities including photo booths, stocking decorating, performances by the Southern California Brass Consortium and Orange County Song & Dance Company, Santa Claus meet and greet, and a beachside screening of “Elf” featuring Will Ferrell.
The event’s centerpiece, where Christmas trees float in the bay outside the resort, will remain through Jan. 1, 2023.
