Altadena’s Christmas Tree Lane lighting ceremony, which first began in 1920, returned on Saturday, Dec. 6, for its first ceremony since the devastating Eaton Fire tore through the community in January.
The 105th annual tradition was filled with colorful lights, festive music and a sense of community strength. However, it also brought with it a storm of emotion as the community honored the victims of the deadly wildfire that claimed 19 lives and left thousands without homes.
Before the lights were revealed, attendees heard emotional words focused on community strength and perseverance. Actor Edward James Olmos got emotional as he addressed the community who, in turn, had tears welling in their eyes.
“This is a very special moment in time,” Olmos said. “Bless your heart for being on the lane.”
During the ceremony, a moment of silence was held. The packed avenue was quiet with their phone flashlights raised above their heads for those who lost their lives to the blaze.
“We’re going to have one minute and 19 seconds of silence to memorialize the love and understanding we have for those of us that are not here,” Olmos said. “Love and give to others kindness, respect and understanding.”
The nearly mile stretch of Santa Rosa Avenue, known as Christmas Tree Lane, is lined with deodar cedar trees that are decorated by the community and volunteers annually. Every single tree miraculously survived the fire.
Near the Altadena Library stood a memorial tree where attendees could write messages to the victims and survivors of the deadly fire.
The Festival offered plenty of activities, from a model train display and house parties to residents providing warm cups of hot cocoa and music played by marching bands.
Christmas Tree Lane Association President Scott Wardlaw shared his gratitude for the people who attended, the volunteers who strung up the lights and others who made it possible.
“[The volunteers] come out every year and help us make it happen,” Wardlaw said. “Nobody has to come here, and yet, it happens every year.”
Despite the emotional toll many are still facing in the wake of the fires, the Christmas Tree Lane tradition lives on, offering the Altadena community some return to normal among the chaos they have experienced.
