Christmas in Spring Park

December 11, from 5:00-7:00pm, the City of Spring Park held their annual Christmas lighting ceremony. With a showing of Orono Police and Firefighters, city officials, and the town’s mayor, the event was truly a who’s who of Spring Park authority.

For guests, hot cocoa, snacks, and baked goods were provided while alcohol was available for purchase. On Warren Ave, a fire engine idled, fully lit with colorful Christmas string lights. Meanwhile, children reveled in the opportunity to meet Santa Claus, who was eagerly awaiting their arrival at the stoop of the City Hall building. Inside and situated under a glowing Christmas tree, gift bags of little toys, coloring supplies, and candy canes awaited them.

The spirit indoors was an inviting one, as town residents mingled amongst themselves. Chatter of the holiday and the crisp weather filled the town chambers when, at a quarter passed six, all were encouraged outside to witness the spectacle of the night: the lighting ceremony.

Mayor Mark Chase stood on the staircase and thanked all in attendance, wishing them a Merry Christmas, before leading the group in a countdown to the lighting. Then, to the enjoyment of all, the building and grounds were emblazoned in festive color. The historical City Hall building, once the Spring Park schoolhouse, looked nothing less than picturesque when fully lit with holiday spirit.

Some may have felt an absence of vendor participation but, to the author, its absence made for the essence of Lake Minnetonka’s community to be felt in the simple warmth of meeting fellow neighbors and townsfolk, rather than in the distraction of knick-knacks and other miscellaneous trinkets.

What a wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season!