Friday, Dec. 6, marked yet another Mill Creek HolidayFest tree lighting celebration. The park glowed with song and fun as horse-drawn carriages circled the streets and the smell of hot dogs, popcorn, and hot cocoa filled the night air. The voices of the high school and middle school chorus students floated overhead. Santa Claus held court inside City Hall, his helpers handing out photos and candy canes to the excited children. A city bus parked along the street to collect donations for the South Portland Food Cupboard.

This annual event, a partnership between the city, the schools, local businesses and organizations, is a seasonal favorite of the community and could not happen without the generosity of the partners and participants. The event marks the beginning of the holiday season and brings the citizens together with spirit and good will. On behalf of lead organizers South Portland/Cape Elizabeth Community Chamber and the Waterfront Market Association, we thank all of those who came together Friday night to remind us all what being a community is all about.

Jane Eberle, director of business partnerships
South Portland School Department