Hundreds of people converged downtown in front of the Arlington Theatre Friday night to celebrate the lighting of holiday Christmas Tree.
Broadcast journalist John Palminteri led the countdown from 5 to turn on the lights of the 40-foot Christmas tree on State Street.
The event included performances by Georgey Taupin, the 2024 Spirit of Fiesta, and Aleenah Soriano, the 2024 Jr. Spirit of Fiesta.
Santa Barbara Dance Arts performed, as did Hula Anyone, the UC Santa Barbara Chamber Choir, Rhythmic Gymnastics, San Marcos Marching Band & Drumline. The event, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. was organized by the Downtown Association, and hosted by DJ Darla Bea.
Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse and City Councilman Oscar Gutierrez were also part of the formal program.
