19th Annual Heritage Community Christmas Tree Lighting at Moonlight Beach Dec. 6

A holiday tradition in its 19th  year, the Community Christmas tree will be once again be lit in time for the Holiday Parade. This star pine was planted by the Danforth family in 1962 and, at about 84 feet in height, it is perhaps the tallest lighted, living tree in North County.

The Danforth family planted the tree as a Mother's Day gift for their mother Jane. In the 60's and 70's the tree was lit by their father Ben, but it eventually became too tall to decorate. In the early 90's, the tree was lit again by the efforts of various members of the community and adjacent neighbors. In 2006, a City grant provided new lights. Encinitas 101 Mainstreet now pays for the electricity and the decorating is done under the leadership of Luis Ortiz. 

Each year Luis Ortiz puts his time, energy and heart into decorating the tree.  He sees it as his gift to the community.

Come watch the tree lighting Friday Dec. 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Corner of 4th Street and C Street. 

–information from the City of Encinitas