As fall comes into full swing, we are graced with brisk breezes, and beautiful blue sky weather as Seaside’s halls are being decked in preparation for the holidays. I guess you could say we kind of get into our holidays around here. Groups gather to hang seasonal lighting throughout town, festive boughs adorn our iconic lampposts along the Prom and up and down Broadway, and decorations galore go up on our giant community Christmas tree in the center of town.
Seaside’s Christmas tree is typically a Douglas Fir covered with hundreds of ornaments, including some that are motion-sensing, musical, lighted orbs. It has already been decorated by the folks at the Seaside Chamber, but the official tree lighting ceremony will take place after the Parade of Lights next week.
Seaside’s Parade of Lights is a locals’ favorite this time of year. Like other parades, this one consists of several floats expressing their spirit, however, they do this, not with roses or dahlias seen by light of day, but with lights—lots and lots of lights—glowing in the night!
There have been some spectacular displays. I’ve seen huge recycling trucks covered in lights, teams of dogs dressed up as Santa’s reindeer wearing lights and pulling a “sleigh.” There have been flatbed trailers full of festive bedecked folk, including Santa, Mrs. C, and their helpers. And, what’s a parade without music?! This year, the marching band from Astoria High School will be accompanying the fun-loving paraders.
If you haven’t gotten into the holiday spirit yet, wrap up in a jacket and scarf and stroll along Broadway at dusk or watch a crisp fall sunset with the festive “seasoning” surrounding you. With ingredients like these, you’re sure to catch a taste of holiday spirit in Seaside!
