|
For starters – the holiday season kicks off with a bang – or should I say, a gobble?
The annual Turkey Trot gets us moving before we dive into our Thanksgiving feasts. It’s the perfect way to build up an appetite and connect with neighbors before the big day. My daughters absolutely love this fun (and brisk event!)
But that’s just the appetizer. As November turns to December, Lassen County becomes i a winter wonderland of activities that would make even Santa’s elves jealous.
The highlight of our festive calendar has to be the Festival of Lights at the Lassen County Fairgrounds. This has long been an Avilla family tradition, and I know I am not alone in this.
From December 6th through the 25th, our community comes together to create a dazzling display that lights up the night. I can’t thank the fairgrounds enough for putting the wonder in my children’s eyes as they drive through this twinkling wonderland – it’s pure magic.
And speaking of magic, who could forget our cherished Christmas tree lighting ceremony? It’s a moment when time seems to stand still, and we all come together to watch our town square sparkle to life as we watch the Christmas parade and see the ever so iconic tree come to life at the top of town.
But the holidays aren’t just about lights and decorations. In our community-it’s about the spirit of giving, and boy, does our community have that in spades!
The sound of Salvation Army bells ringing outside Walmart from November to December is music to my ears. It’s heartwarming to see so many volunteers sign up to ring those bells, that too has become an Avilla family tradition.
From craft fairs showcasing local artisans to live nativity scenes that bring the Christmas story to life, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit. We’ve got photos with Santa for the little ones, holiday concerts for music lovers, and of course the amazing Christmas dance shoes put on my the local studios.
What makes all of these events truly special isn’t just the twinkling lights or the festive music—it’s the people. It’s seeing familiar faces bundled up against the cold, sharing smiles and warmer hugs. It’s the way our community comes together, from the smallest towns like Westwood and Doyle to Susanville itself, to celebrate the season.
In Lassen County, the holidays aren’t just a time of year-they’re a feeling. A feeling of belonging, of joy, and of home. It’s why we love this place, not just during the holidays, but all year round.
So bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and I hope to see you celebrating the most wonderful time of the year in the most wonderful place we know – our very own Lassen County.
| 
