- lighting of the Beverly Hills Christmas tree
On Sunday November 23, 2008, thousands gathered to watch the 8th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at The Grove of Los Angeles. Headlining the event was Natalie Cole singing her father’s holiday favorites with comedian John Lovitz as host. The 106 foot tall white fir tree from McLeod, California in the Mt. Shasta region of Northern California was lit and decorated with 10,000 lights on 15,000 ornaments. The exciting, festive evening included a visit from Santa, falling snow and an amazing fireworks display that could be seen from balcony’s around the city. The tree at the Grove is taller than the famous NYC Rockefeller Center 70 foot tree and was chosen because it is over 80 years old and near the end of the white fir’s life cycle. After the holidays, the branches will be used for mulch and the trunk for firewood. It is noteworthy that 14 new white fir trees will be planted in its place. It was a pleasure to be around the fresh, healthy smell of the beautiful white fir. The evening was joyful and enjoyable and set the tone for a happy, festive 2008 Holiday Season. Happy Holidays from the Socialites!
- sabrina parisi, donna spangler, Marie Fote
