By Khalida Sarwari
Nearly 2,000 people braved the cool fall winds the day after Thanksgiving to attend Saratoga’s annual tree lighting and wine stroll in the Village.
Pat Martell, president of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce and coordinator of this year’s event, said the festivities went off without a hitch.
“The kid zone was popular and packed, and there was no shortage of smiles,” said Martell. “People came early into the Village, and Big Basin Way was alive with activity.”
Mayor Emily Lo kicked off the tree lighting in Blaney Plaza, followed by the Marshall Lane school choir, which set the holiday tone with traditional Christmas carols. A snow-blowing snowman added to the celebration. Craftspeople brought items such as handmade Christmas trees and colorful aprons and plants.
Armed with a map and a wine glass, attendees walked Big Basin Way in search of the 21 participating wineries that offered sweet and savory morsels to go with sips of their specially selected wine. Though not yet open for business, Village Burger Bar offered a preview of food with their treats.
Dressed in full Father Christmas regalia, Saratogan Jack Mallory strolled Big Basin Way, stopping to snap photos with visitors. People couldn’t help taking “selfies” as they rode horse-drawn carriages strutting up and down Big Basin Way. Bell ringers, musical trios and a choir from Saratoga High School helped keep holiday spirits high.
When they weren’t busy jumping around in the bounce house, the little ones enjoyed decorating cookies in the children’s fun zone or sampling hot cider and cookies handed out by local firefighters.
The Book-Go-Round kicked off its annual sale of gently used books. The sale will continue through December, with new selections added each day.
Cookies and hot cider were also handed out at the Saratoga History Museum, where folks dropped by to check out the new exhibit, “It’s a Boomer Christmas.” The free exhibit can be seen from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday until Jan. 25. Docents also gave tours of the historic McWilliams House.
“This is a very special day when the community comes to Big Basin Way to enjoy the festivities,” said Annette Stransky, president of the Saratoga Historical Foundation. “It’s so nice to see young and old enjoy the festivities.”
The 13th annual event was sponsored by the city in partnership with the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce.
Link: Holiday season begins in Saratoga with tree lighting, wine stroll
