On Nov. 18, Grand Junction officially began the Christmas season with the annual Tree Lighting event held at the corner of Fourth Street and Main Street. The event drew hundreds of people wrapped in scarves and coats for the cold weather.

Third and fourth graders from Dos Rios Elementary School sold hot beverages and baked goods donated by local businesses to benefit the school’s music program.

“We’ve done this every year for the last nine years,” Dos Rios’ Music Teacher Pamela Opsal said. “It’s always a great experience to be here to kick off the holidays.”

While the children eagerly anticipated Santa’s arrival, The Tonettes, a local all-female vocal group sang classic Christmas carols and performed a rhyming holiday skit.

At 5:45 p.m. Santa made his appearance on the roof of Wells Fargo bank and lit the tree along with lights that lined the rest of Main Street’s shopping district. Children had the opportunity to make personal requests with Santa while Christmas carols continued to play.

The holiday festivities continue on Nov. 25 at the building-and-window decorating contest for downtown businesses and the Parade of Lights, which will take place on at 5 p.m. on Dec. 3.

cmfoster@mavs.coloradomesa.edu