19th Annual Tree Lighting Kicked Off Holiday Season
Marking the beginning of the festive season in grand style, the Southern Highlands Homeowners Association and the Olympia Companies Charitable Foundation teamed up to present the 19th Annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting. A cherished tradition that not only ushers in the holiday spirit but also provides an opportunity for neighbors to come together, this year's event was filled with food, family, friends, and festive merriment—all for a good cause. The festivities supported Operation Warm Heart, a nonprofit organization offering financial aid to the Nellis and Creech military community's local airmen and their families.
Bigger and better than ever, the Winter Festival and Tree Lighting featured delightful encounters with iconic characters such as the Grinch, Rudolph, and the man of the season, Santa Claus himself. Children reveled in a variety of activities, from bouncing in a lively house to penning heartfelt letters to Santa, coloring Whoville crafts, sipping on hot chocolate, and enjoying Storytime with Mrs. Claus. Eric Roy Law Firm provided whimsical caricatures, adding a personalized touch to the festivities. The undeniable highlight, however, was the enchanting Holiday Express Trains, whisking passengers through the festively adorned event space.
The air was filled with the festive tunes spun by a DJ, while the melodious voices of the choir from Desert Oasis High School echoed throughout the festival. The night topped off with the magical lighting of the colossal 30-foot Christmas Tree.
Guests explored the Vendor Village, discovering unique holiday gifts crafted by local artisans. Foodies indulged in the delectable offerings of popular food trucks, including Taco Ave., Iced Sugar Factory, and Da Braddahs Grindz Hawaiian BBQ.
The event's success wasn't just measured in joyous memories; it also raised $7,500 through the sale of activity card tickets, festive swag like reindeer antler headbands and light-up necklaces, and generous contributions from Olympia Companies Charitable Foundation. Of this amount, $4,000 in toys were donated to Operation Warm Heart families and children.
This festive collaboration between the Olympia Companies Charitable Foundation and Southern Highlands extends beyond the Winter Festival and Tree Lighting. It is part of a broader commitment to supporting Operation Warm Heart, with other community-focused events, including the annual Memorial Day Celebration and the Governor's Black-Tie events, also contributing to this worthy cause.