Mizner Park Tree Lighting Kicks Off Boca’s Holiday Season
By: Jack Rubin
The holiday season in Boca Raton officially kicked off last Wednesday when Mayor Susan Haynie lit the Mizner Park Holiday Tree. Festivities included a children’s concert, a carnival, and exciting food and beverage options.
Wednesday’s children-oriented entertainment kicked off at 6 p.m., when Santa Claus arrived at the Mizner clock tower. Around him stood face-painting and sand art tents, with hundreds of kids eager to grab a picture with Santa.
Fifteen minutes later, traditional Christmas carolers took the Mizner Park Amphitheater stage. Their performance teed up the main event of the night, the lighting of the tree. Spectacular fireworks lit up the sky after Mayor Haynie truly began the holiday season.
Festivities continued throughout the night with carnival rides in Mizner Park and a musical performance that featured the Minions, Big Bird, and Elmo. Rides included a funhouse, classic swings, and other thrill rides.
While Boca’s November and December weather may not exactly scream holiday spirit, the City has many events planned to create a jovial winter feeling. The 47th annual Holiday Street Parade is scheduled for December 6. The route will span a one mile stretch along the west side of Mizner Park.
Running just before the parade will be the 17th annual Boca Raton Holiday Mile. Boca’s one-mile dash is sponsored by Runner’s Edge and Boca Raton Police Athletic League. With bleachers set up for spectators outside of Sanborn Square, hundreds of viewers lining federal highway, and Christmas lights and costumes galore, it is certainly expected to be a fun event to be a part of.
On the night of Saturday, Dec. 16, the Intracoastal will play host to the 41st annual Holiday Boat Parade, certainly a fan-favorite event. With winners taking home cash prizes, the light designs on boats in past years have been nothing short of remarkable. Some public viewing areas in Boca are Red Reef Park and Silver Palm Park.
With the holiday season underway, Boca Raton has plenty of entertaining events in store. The tree lighting was a success, and as the calendar turns to December the parade is up next.
