It may not have the aerodynamics of a sleigh and reindeer, but Santa's Sunday night escort into Solana Beach on a fire truck is pretty cool, too.
The expected time of arrival is 5:20 p.m., just in time for the annual Solana Beach holiday tree-lighting ceremony. The free event, which starts at 5 p.m. this year, includes free cookies and cupcakes, live music and giveaways for the youngsters. Of course children will also have the opportunity to tell Santa what they want this holiday season.
"The night of the event is intended to just bring the community together," said Chris Antonelli of the parks and recreation subcommittee. "Over the holidays, the days are shorter and you're not seeing your neighbors as often, so it's an opportunity to get everybody together for a free event and just to celebrate."
This year, Santa also gets some new perks, including a new platform and chair to sit on.
"Every year we try to add something new," said Gerri Retman-Opper, chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission.
But one thing that has become a staple of this event is the city's 18-foot-tall holiday tree. Sunday night it makes its return to Fletcher Cove, complete with LED lights ready to be switched on to kick off the holiday season in Solana Beach.
Jonathan Horn Jonathan Horn covers Del Mar and Solana Beach. E-mail him with comments or questions.
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