By: Kara Patman
Staff Writer
As the holiday season begins to sink in with the smell of fresh peppermint, trees decorated in their favorite sparkles, and festive colored wrapping paper being pulled out from under the bed, Manhattan Beach is also getting into the holiday spirit.
The 25th annual Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting took place this year on November 19th at the Manhattan Beach Pier from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. along with the annual Holiday Open House.
“The tree lighting is a special occasion in which the community can come together and celebrate a common tradition,” senior Parker McColgan said. “No matter what holiday you celebrate, this is a time for everyone to get together and enjoy the season.”
After musical performances by Mira Costa Choir and others, Mayor Wayne Powell flipped the switch to make the pier glow to set off the official holiday season for Manhattan Beach.
“When the actual pier is lit it is kind of magical,” senior Natalie Hoag said. “Although we don’t have snow in Manhattan Beach it makes me feel like we are a part of the season’s holiday traditions too.”
This event is held by the Downtown Manhattan Beach Business Association. The association includes the downtown local retailers, stores, and restaurants. The pier lighting is the association’s way for thanking the community for their loyalty to the local businesses. There were holiday oriented gifts as well as samples from local restaurants during the event to enhance the holiday spirit.
“This is a really nice event to spend with family and friends,” senior Arielle Sheres said. “It’s fun to sit with a warm drink in hand, enjoy the music, the lights, and the holiday spirit underneath a warm blanket. I’m so glad for this Manhattan beach tradition.”
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