PORT ST. LUCIE — As anticipation built, the countdown started, not only lighting up the outside of the MIDFLORIDA Event Center but also igniting the excitement of every person in the crowd.
It wasn’t just any Christmas tree, but it was our Christmas tree.
The countdown led to a moment of excitement, hope, and pure magic for those who eagerly watched as the 34-foot Christmas tree shimmered in thousands of LED-powered lights of every color.
This past Saturday, thousands of residents gathered at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center to celebrate the city’s signature holiday event, the Festival of Lights.
The festivities kicked off at 2 p.m. with carnival rides, food trucks, vendors, and more.
Residents started arriving around 5 p.m. in time for the holiday parade, which featured many local small businesses, the county’s first responders, and a dazzling array of lights.
Following the parade, the crowds gathered near the towering Christmas tree for the highly anticipated lighting ceremony.
Mayor Shannon Martin and Councilman David Pickett opened the ceremony with heartfelt words, celebrating the holiday season and the community’s vibrant spirit. Joined by Santa and Mrs. Claus, the group led the countdown, and when the switch was flipped, cheers were let out as the tree was illuminated in bright colors of all kinds.
Following the ceremony, attendees were treated to a variety of entertainment, including a wonderful live performance from the top-rated Miami-based event band, FM Band.
Nearby, families posed for festive photos with the many pieces of decor outside of the Event Center entrance, free photo booths, and even the 360-degree inflatable igloo photo booth and of course, captured memories with Santa.
The night ended with a stunning fireworks display at 9 p.m., lighting the St. Lucie sky with a breathtaking Zambelli Fireworks Spectacular, leaving families with an unforgettable holiday memory.
Outside of the outdoor festivities, the event offered more holiday fun for families inside the Event Center.
Visitors explored the fun PSLinLights Experience, a holiday wonderland featuring twinkling lights, festive photo ops, holiday crafts, and the popular cookie contest, the Gingersnap Showdown.
Guests also browsed handcrafted gifts and festive items from the holiday marketplace. Many tables were set up within the Event Center by the city for residents to see.
Donations of non-perishable canned goods supported the Treasure Coast Food Bank, helping to give back to the community.
The event was met with a great reception as it filled residents and attendees of all ages with the holiday spirit that will fuel the rest of the city’s December-long Christmas events, and giving families another wonderful night to remember.
For more information on future holiday events running throughout December, visit the ‘Events’ page on www.cityofpsl.com.