Virtual tree lightings set in Sequim, Port Angeles

Published 1:30 am Thursday, November 26, 2020

Virtual holiday tree-lighting ceremonies are set for Sequim today (Thursday) and Port Angeles on Saturday.

Because of health precautions, the ceremonies will be online only.

In Sequim, the annual tree lighting can be viewed online at 5 p.m. today, when the tree at the corner of Sequim Avenue and Washington Street will begin to glow.

The tree can be seen on the Sequim-Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce website or on Facebook.

The tree has been contributed by Brown Maloney and will be decorated by Captain-Crystal Stout, Emily Westcott and other volunteers.

Unlike previous years, Santa Claus and live music will not be featured due to state regulations, organizers said.

The Port Angeles Downtown Virtual Tree Lighting will begin at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Links will be placed on the websites and Facebook pages of the Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce or on the Port Angeles Downtown Association website.

“With COVID restrictions, gatherings are strongly discouraged this year,” said organizer Berth Witters. “The lighting will be brief with all entertainment available online only.”

The evening will include a message from Port Angeles Mayor Kate Dexter and pre-recorded solos from local high school and community members, Witters said.

The Downtown Association has contracted with videographer Silas Crews, who created the Virtual Fourth of July Fireworks show from the chamber as well as the Field Center event for the final beam placement, Witters said.

Ten messages of 10 to 15 seconds each from downtown businesses will be featured during the lead up to Santa’s arrival and the tree lighting.

The tree at the Conrad Dyar Fountain at First and Laurel streets was donated by Jackie and John Z. Miller of Port Angeles.

Forks and Port Townsend will celebrate the holiday season next weekend.