Great Falls marked the official start of the 2021 holiday season with its 31st annual tree lighting on Sunday, Dec. 1. This free event, organized by the Celebrate Great Falls Foundation, was held at the Village Field behind the Post Office, and included seasonal music, visits with Santa, and a live Nativity.
Hot cocoa, cookies and other holiday treats were provided by sponsors. Participants enjoyed seasonal activities and entertainment including writing letters to Santa, crafts, petting some friendly alpacas, all while awaiting the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Sexton Christmas Trees was on hand throughout the event, collecting hot drink mixes, toiletries, and gift cards to donate to Cornerstones, a Reston-based organization whose service area includes most of northwestern Fairfax County, helping people build more stable lives by connection them to resources that solve their needs for housing, childcare, food or financial assistance. Anyone who was unable to make a donation at the event but would like to help now may visit the Cornerstones website.
In case you missed it, here are a few photos from the event.
A large crowd awaits the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. 
Music was provided by local school choirs, including singers from Colvin Run Elementary School, shown here. 
Elected officials moved among the crowd, including Delegate Kathleen Murphy (D-34) and Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10). 
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived with a fire department escort to light the tree. 
Weary alpacas head for home following the tree lighting.