By Ronni Hannaman
Friday night’s Silver and Snowflakes Festival of Lights was a magical event filling the downtown with onlookers who wanted to witness one of Carson City’s spectacular hometown events to usher in the holiday season. For many, the tree lighting has become a family tradition.
No one was disappointed and the event went off without a hitch. New this year was far better sound allowing all to hear the kids. A video wall was installed for the first time allowing those not close to the action to get a full view of the kids as they sang.
The city’s high-energy 5th graders sang traditional holiday songs as they had never been sung before. Santa and the Grinch couldn’t contain their enthusiasm with Santa singing along and even conducting. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and his family, including grandson Teddy, were enchanted.
First Lady Donna Lombardo stated there was nothing like this in Las Vegas. Two-year old Teddy did the honors this year of flipping the magic switch to light up the capitol grounds and what a thrill it was.
Unlike most communities, not only is our official Christmas tree lit, but just about every tree in our downtown urban forest — the front lawn of the capitol — receives a coat of lights.
Every light worked and the grounds became a colorful piece of LED art not found in possibly any other Nevada community thanks to an amazing state grounds crew who create magic annually.
If you were not present for the Friday night lighting, do take the opportunity to stroll the capitol grounds after dark to enjoy this spectacular light show that will be up until New Year’s.
The Chamber has been honored to coordinate this event for the past nine years and wishes all a Happy Holiday.
— Ronni Hannaman is the Executive Director of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce.
