Now in its 18th year, Lakeside’s Spirit of Christmas is better than ever and drawing thousands from all over East County to its hometown holiday celebration. With rock n’ roll down by the Eastbound Bar and Grill to local school performances over by the Lakeside Historical Society, this year’s event had more than ever in between for people to enjoy. The Lakeside Chamber of Commerce, once again, made it a night to remember in the family fun event with a little something for everyone.
Now in its 18th year, Lakeside’s Spirit of Christmas is better than ever and drawing thousands from all over East County to its hometown holiday celebration. With rock n’ roll down by the Eastbound Bar and Grill to local school performances over by the Lakeside Historical Society, this year’s event had more than ever in between for people to enjoy. The Lakeside Chamber of Commerce, once again, made it a night to remember in the family fun event with a little something for everyone.
Local churches, scouts and organizations lined Main Avenue with an abundance of activities for children and adults, all of which was enjoyed and talked about throughout the evening. Santa and Mrs. Claus made a grand entrance down Main preceded by the El Capitan Marching Band. Gathering with members of the Chamber, Lakeside’s fire and EMT first responders, the Lakeside Pageant ambassadors, the Claus’s helped kick off the night of festivities with the annual tradition of lighting the Christmas tree located on the Historical Societies site. The Claus’s then headed next door to Montessori East County Preschool & Infant Care that generously offers up its large front porch and grounds for every child to get a chance to talk to Santa and give them their wishes for Christmas. With a lot of help from the Lakeside Pageant ambassadors, Santa and his elves gave prime attention to each child and offered the opportunity for parents to capture the moment on camera. And in the background, the sounds of the Lemon Crest Elementary choir, along with many other local organizations filled the air with holiday spirit with song.
Along with a few food vendors, the local restaurants and stores were filled to the brim with people, making it not only a night of festivities, but of holiday commerce. Even a majority of the vendors on the street were East County entrepreneurs and craftsmen’s unique ideas for holiday gifts and activities for the kids.
Once again, the Chamber went all out for this event and made the 18th year better than the year before. This is a trend that is making its Spirit of Christmas a go-to for the holiday season for many families.
