This is a fun time for families to get the holiday season started with the arrival of Santa who will light the world’s tallest living and consecutively lit Christmas tree (131 feet, Douglas {Grand} Fir). This year marks the 58th year of lighting the tree.

New this year will be tractor hay rides sponsored by Oxford Suites and Randy Biegenwald CPA. Rides will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will start at Oxford Suites then travel thru old town Silverdale to participating merchants who will have activities and goodies. At 4 p.m. Lisa Stirrett glass studio will also have sugar cookies that people can decorate with icing and sprinkles.

At 4:30 p.m. activities start in front of the Silverdale Antique store, 9490 Silverdale Way. “The Kitsap Carolers” will perform and the Silverdale Kiwanis will have hot cider, hot chocolate and cookies. For a second year in a row, the Silverdale Lowe’s hardware store is sponsoring “Santa’s workshop for Children”.

At 5 p.m. “The Caroliers” will perform followed by the scheduled arrive at 5:45 of Santa Clause on a Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue fire truck with the Kitsap County Sheriff’s department giving Santa a safe escort thru town. Santa will then ask for everyone’s help as he does a count down to light the tree. Afterwards, the Kiwanis club will be hosting Santa to meet and talk with all the children and Gary Bowlby Photography will be on hand to take pictures.

The Silverdale Dandy Lions will also be collecting used hearing aids/ glasses and the Salvation Army will be accepting donations.

This great community event would not be possible without the help of the following people and organizations such as:

Rick Leenstra, owner of the Christmas tree, who not only graciously allows us to enjoy the tree but pays for the electricity.

Gus Housen, owner of Gordon Sound, who provides the sound system at this event and at many others in the community.

Ken Little, who climbs the tree to string and repair the lights.

Bill Carter and Hansen Sign Company who provided their electrical expertise.

Kitsap County Juvenile Alternative Work Program, who cleared brush and blackberries out from under the tree.

If you would like to help with next year’s event or would like to share your thoughts, please send an email to Silverdaletlc@gmail.com.