Little America Hotel in Flagstaff began working on its Christmas spirit back in August, and they are still at it. For the 18th year in a row, the hotel is hosting a Holiday Lights event that has become a Flagstaff tradition. On Nov. 24, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, a lucky “junior master of ceremonies,” chosen from FUSD, will be flipping on the one million lights they have been stringing since summer.
The Holiday Lights event, which runs from 4-8 p.m., is free and open to the public. The party includes a travel-themed raffle with all funds benefiting the local United Way. Beside the raffle, Little America’s general manager, Fred Reese, says there will be carolers, face painting, balloon sculpting, crafts, cookie decorating, cider, Suzuki strings and more.
“Holiday Lights has really become a tradition here, and it’s something families and kids can look forward to as a way to kick off the Christmas season,” Reese said. “Last year, we raised over $1,800 for the United Way. We hope each year that number will grow.”
The dramatic flip of the light switch will occur around 6:30 p.m., with Santa arriving shortly thereafter. Every year, Santa arrives in a new and creative way. In the past, he has danced in with the Sambatuque band, and has ridden in on a motorcycle, horse and ATV. This year’s dramatic arrival will be a surprise. Kids and their families will have a chance to take a photo with Santa.
According to Reese, “We put a lot of time and money into this event at our expense, as a way of giving back to the Flagstaff community. Flagstaff folks have been good to us and this is our way of thanking them.”
In addition to the Holiday Lights event, this year, Little America will be partnering with the North Pole Experience (NPX) until Dec. 28. Santa’s Workshop in Flagstaff will open the doors of the brand-new 8,500-square-foot workshop.
The NPX adventure begins at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff. Both the trolley ride to and from Little America and the time at Santa’s workshop are full of holiday delights. Between NPX and Little America, Flagstaff provides a complete family Christmas experience for locals and tourists. FBN
To learn more about Little America Hotel in Flagstaff and the Holiday Lights event, visit www.flagstaff.littleamerica.com. For NPX, visit www.NorthPoleExperience.com.