Holiday traditions. It’s a two-word phrase that pops into my head, and most likely yours, around this time every year.
I’ve written in this space before that I’m still rather new to the coast. Okay, it’s been well over two years since I traded the mountains of Utah for the coast of Oregon, so I suppose that “new” statement can’t be used for much longer. And although the climates are different and I now see more sea foam than snow drifts, I’m beginning to settle into the routine of coastal living.
One tradition that hasn’t changed is the Christmas tree going up at my house the day after Thanksgiving. What’s exciting about this year is that we were able to do it a little earlier – thanks to Thanksgiving falling so early this year. What has followed, and become another post-Thanksgiving tradition, is attending the annual Parade of Lights in downtown Seaside with my young family.
The weather can be unpredictable, but isn’t that always the case along the Coast this time of year? And what’s fantastic about this particular event is the unity and joy that comes out in the community and our out-of-town guests, especially on the faces of children. Even in the rain, which we experienced our first year in Seaside; the smiles remain, as uniquely decorated floats roll along Broadway.
As you head into the holiday season with those close to you, we invite you to share your special traditions. Do they involve the beach? Maybe it’s a special event that you can’t imagine not replicating each year? Whatever it might be, from all of us at the Seaside Visitors Bureau, we wish you many happy days and moments this holiday season. See you in Seaside!
