Christmas tree lighting at U-City kicks off annual Celebration of Lights

The Rotary Club of Spokane Valley is lighting its Christmas tree one last time in the U-City Parking lot on Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. when it kicks off its annual Celebration of Lights.

Rotary’s Mike Payson said next year the celebration will move next year in front of the new Spokane Valley City Hall and the lights will hang on a real tree.

“Everyone I’ve talked to at city hall says it’s going to happen,” Payson said.

The artificial tree that’s been used for the many years is on its last legs after it was hit by a car and developed some electrical problems.

But Spokane Valley Rotary has kept it going, including taking off malfunctioning branches and adding new lights every year.

On Thursday, the tree will be lit as Santa arrives with the University High School Marching Band.

The Solar Energy Choir from Sunrise Elementary School will perform and Miss Spokane Valley will be there along with her court.

The Spokane Valley City Council will read “ ’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and there will be hot chocolate for everyone.

On Dec. 3, Rotary Club of Spokane Valley and the city of Spokane Valley will host a breakfast with Santa Clause at CenterPlace, from 8 a.m. to noon. Pancakes and sausages will be served and there will be games and crafts for children.

Tickets are $5 per person and must be purchased in advance by calling (509) 688-0300 or online at www.spokanevalley.org/santabreakfast. The proceeds from the Santa breakfast benefit Spokane Valley Rotary’s scholarship and Books For Kids programs.