Lights, music, magic: Ontario welcomes the holiday season with annual tree lighting

ONTARIO — Ontario is dreaming of the kind of Christmas that Irving Berlin wrote about in 1942.

During Miss Ontario Morgyn Beasley’s performance of Berlin’s holiday classic, White Christmas, at the city’s annual tree lighting, she paused mid-song and addressed the crowd.

“For this next part, I want you all to join in and sing,” Beasley said. “It starts with ‘I’m dreaming of a white Christmas’ — and I know I certainly am. Sing it with me.”

The crowd responded in a moment of pure holiday warmth. Despite the biting cold, voices lifted together, filling the night with song as attendees joined Beasley in a unified chorus echoing through the park.

No longer a Charlie Brown Christmas tree

Located at 3375 Milligan Road, Marshall Park is typically a quiet community space. But after Thursday evening’s celebration, it now glows with a variety of Christmas lights, festive displays and a towering holiday tree.

Ontario City Council President Eddie Gallo reflected on how far the centerpiece of the celebration has come.

“A few years ago when we planted that tree, it looked like Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree,” Gallo said. “So the first song the jazz band played tonight was very appropriate — but look at it now.”

Ontario Mayor Kris Knapp thanked the many people who helped bring the event to life. As a graduate, alumnus and former teacher in the Ontario school system, Knapp said the night held special meaning for him.

He expressed gratitude to city council, the parks department, Kenn Spencer, Pioneer students who helped install the displays, Spring Electric and Scott Trumpower for their contributions to the evening’s success.

Knapp closed his remarks with a spirited countdown, drawing cheers from the crowd as the park finally lit up in a brilliant display of holiday color.

A celebration for all ages

In addition to the tree lighting, the evening offered a full lineup of entertainment for community members of all ages.

At 5:45 p.m., a candlelight vigil was held at the pavilion, giving attendees a quiet moment to honor loved ones they have lost.

Just minutes later, at 6 p.m., Santa Claus made a grand entrance as guests enjoyed cookies and hot chocolate throughout the festivities.

Musical performances filled the park, beginning with Rhapsody in Blues, who performed three selections, followed by a set from the Ontario Jazz Band.

After the tree lighting, the celebration continued with performances by the Golden Girls, the Majorettes and the Auxiliary Flag Girls.

The evening concluded with Miss Ontario, Miss Junior Ontario and Little Miss Ontario announcing the winners of the Lions Club coloring contest, putting a festive finishing touch on the night.

(Photos from the Ontario Christmas tree lighting. Credit: Hannah Martin)