Tree Lighting Event at Hotel Congress December 12, 2009

The public is invited to share in a brand new tradition on Saturday, December 12th at the new Hotel Congress Plaza. The first annual Christmas Tree and Menorah lighting event will be a good old-fashioned community celebration in the true giving spirit of the season. With Casa de los Ninos as the beneficiary, and support from many local groups and non-profit organizations, this is one event that is sure to draw a happy crowd.
On Wednesday, December 9th, a spectacular 20 ft. blue spruce will make its way downtown where it will take its place of honor in the center of the Plaza. The official kick off will be on Saturday, December 12th at noon when the plaza will be buzzing with lots of holiday activity. Non-profit organizations including Katie’s Heart, Casa de los Ninos, Bens Bells, YMCA and Child and Family Resource will all be on location making ornaments for the tree. They will be joined by Perri Jewelers, Bohemia, the Waldorf School, Local First, Tucson Children’s Museum and Mrs. Tiggy Winkle’s. Art students from The Drawing Studio will be on hand to help with ornament design and decoration.
The event culminates with the tree lighting at 5:30pm, just before the annual Downtown Parade of Lights procession through downtown. The led tree lights will be donated by Tucson Electric Power and sustainably powered by Solar Store solar power truck.
Entertainment throughout the day will feature The U of A Tucson Song Choir, national acoustic duo Ryanhood, as well as the Youth Mariachi Tesoro De Tucson, a dj and more. Santa will be on hand from 2pm throughout the afternoon and Mayor Bob Walkup and members of the Tucson City Council will be in attendance. KOLD Chief Meteorologist Chuck George will emcee the official lighting of the tree.
Throughout the day, the Hotel Congress Plaza will be filled with the aromas of roasting chestnuts, mulled cider and hot chocolate. Admission and refreshments are free to those who bring a non-perishable food item, unwrapped toy or clothing item for Casa de los Ninos. Additional refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.
A detailed schedule of events and times can be found on the website at www.hotelcongress.com .

Official Website: http://www.hotelcongress.com