The annual City of Portage Tree Lighting and Traditional Holiday Celebration will take place on Saturday, December 7 from 6 to 8 PM. The event is free and open to the public! The festivities begin with the “I Love Portage” essay contest winners performing the ceremonial lighting of decorations in the Portage City Centre at the end of Library Lane. A horse-drawn wagon with Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead carolers and guests along the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail to the Celery Flats Historical Area where the celebration will continue.
The Traditional Holiday Celebration features festive music and caroling. The Portage Central High School Choirs will perform and lead the participants in singing carols and the Proclamation Brass ensemble will provide holiday musical entertainment. Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet the children in Stuart Manor and Santa’s reindeer will make a stop at the Hayloft Theatre. To close the evening, the Grain Elevator will open its doors with delicious treats for participants to enjoy, free of charge. Hot chocolate and hot apple cider will be sold, with the proceeds benefiting the Portage Community Center.
The City of Portage encourages the public to enter into the holiday spirit by donating gifts for families in need. The Portage Community Center will accept donations of new winter hats, gloves, mittens, toys and non-perishable food items. Monetary donations will also be accepted by the Portage Community Center. Ample parking is available at Portage Central High School, Portage City Hall and the Portage District Library (enter at the Portage Senior Center on Currier Drive), as well as parking lots in the Celery Flats Historical Area. Library Lane will be closed to traffic for the event. For more information, contact Portage Parks & Recreation at 329-4522.
