As many families and students take part in holiday festivities, a favorite hotspot to visit is local tree lightings. Local areas such as downtown Utica, downtown Rochester, and Partridge Creek have attracted many people because of the Christmas tree lightings and other festive lightings. For many, it’s an exciting environment to be a part of and is a Christmas festivity that many should witness.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, many try to find time to continue family traditions. One tradition that has been brought into many homes is attending a tree lighting.

Many of these festive tree lightings, like Utica’s, also include other activities like crafts, visiting with Santa, sleigh rides, and Christmas caroling.

“I enjoy tree lightings because it unites the community as one,” junior Julia Meguid said. “It allows people of the community to celebrate a joyous holiday.”

Although it is nice to stick to tradition, it may also be exciting to visit a new location for this staple activity. Downtown Utica hosted its first re-vamped tree lighting this year which excited the community.

“I was at the Utica one,” principal Tom Lietz said, “where our amazing marching band had lights on their tubas. It was nice.”

While many enjoy being one of the first to witness the grand displays of Christmas lights and decorations, many students and their families may prefer to be surrounded by the holiday spirit while lso doing some holiday shopping. Partridge Creek has been lighting up the hearts and spirits of many for 11 years with their annual tree lightings and light displays.

“I really like the tree lighting at Partridge Creek,” junior Mackenzie Malone said. “I feel like it sets a Christmassy mood at at the mall.”

Another traditional hot spot for holiday cheer is downtown Rochester. The town is known for decorating head-to-toe with lights and decorations.

“I think the lights are really cool,” junior Seth Maskell said, “I go there often because it’s fascinating.”

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These festive activities often bring the community together. As these events bring friends and families closer together. With the holiday season, there is much for students and their families to celebrate.