City of Corona

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season began early on December fifth at Corona’s Historic Civic Center. By the time the sun sank low, and the air shimmered a hue of yellow gold, city employees, local vendors, and generous volunteers were already busy setting up for the excitement to come. As the light faded into evening, there was a joyful hum in the air, for the City of Corona’s annual holiday lighting celebration was about to begin.  

The Fun  

As the night began, the section of Sixth Street in front of the Civic Center was emptied of cars and filled with craft stations, food vendors, and excited visitors. Corona’s Police Department set up their SRT rescue vehicle for eager children to explore. The Corona Fire Department displayed its biggest and best ladder truck to promote its “Spark of Love” toy drive.   
  
On the front lawn of the Historic Civic Center, visitors found many delights. A stage set with sparkles and snowflakes hosting performers from Empire Dance Theater, Circle City Chorale, Crown Town Chorus, Ballet Folklorico, and the OBC Theater. Opportunities for photos with Anna and Elsa from Frozen, a big-hearted Grinch, and Corona’s own holly jolly Santa Claus. In the middle of everything, the three-story-tall evergreen tree, decked from top to bottom with glittering holiday cheer.  

The Lights  

Amid the friendly smiles and childlike wonder, the night held a growing excitement. The anticipation peaked as the hour came near. From Sixth Street to the doors of the Historic Civic Center, all the lights were dimmed. A breathless moment before the countdown began. A crowd in unison, a community as one, called out the numbers 3 2 1. All at once, the front lawn was filled with warmth and the light of the holiday spirit.  
  
The night concluded, full of joy and merriment. The chill in the air was no match for the warmth of a community coming together. The Corona Fire Department collected dozens of toys, local small businesses connected with their patrons, and more than 260 letters to Santa were collected. Each letter will receive a personal response from the big man at the North Pole himself.