Story and Photos by Pat Krause

Acrisure Arena started the holiday season with a spectacular Christmas tree lighting ceremony and Santa's visit to the desert. Hundreds of people attended this free event, many bringing small children to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Some arrived early to see the 55-foot-tall tree in the Coachella Valley. Cocoa, hot toddies, and cookies were given out on this incredible night. All of this Christmas spirit occurred on Wednesday, the 13th.

Santa and Mrs. Clause - photo by Pat Krause

DJ ModGirl provided a lot of music on stage in front of the tree. Three girls from Nickerson Rossi Dance, dressed as elves, danced to the music. The children got excited and joined the girls, dancing in front of the crowd, happy and giggling as their parents took photos on their phones.

Fuego with fans - photo by Pat Krause

The event was scheduled to start at five, and promptly, at 5:10, Santa and Mrs. Claus danced through the crowd. Children jumped excitedly as Santa shook hands with adults, picked up a child, and smiled. They took their places before the tree to greet the little ones for photos. The excitement grew again when FUEGO, the Firebirds AHL mascot, came through the crowd toward Santa. Children were told they could go to the Ice Plex and write letters to Santa. The tree was lit with a countdown at 5:30, illuminating the whole area.

DJ ModGirl with Nickerson Rossi Dance girls -photo by Pat Krause

This event was held just before the Mariah Carey concert. Palm Springs proclaimed November 13th to be Mariah Carey's Day, recognizing her as the Queen of Christmas. Mariah Carey brought her "Christmas Time Tour" to Acrisure Arena to kick off the Christmas season early. More events, like the Ugly Sweater Contest on November 20th at 7:00 and the Teddy Bear Toss on December 28th, are coming. 

Christmas tree lit up -photo by Pat Krause