“Home for the holidays” sure takes on a different connotation in a year that most of us spent sheltered in place.
So, this season the Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast (MCRTC) and the City of Stuart united on a safe way for the community to come together.
Introducing … Santa’s City Lights.
Kicking off from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 12, Santa’s City Lights will feature a forest of Christmas trees—lit and decorated by MCRTC members—throughout Memorial Park in downtown Stuart. Opening night features Santa Claus himself, who will be available for socially distanced photos with the kids.
The entire event is free.
Celebrity judges Stacey Hetherington, chair of the Martin County Commission, and Troy McDonald, Stuart City commissioner, will join Spears in crowning three trees as “Best Overall,” “Most Creative” and “Most Spirited.”
“We really wanted to do something for the entire community but we especially had children in mind when putting together this event,” said Andy Spears, president of MCRTC, who credited Dan Carmody, MCRTC president-elect, with coming up with Santa’s City Lights. “From the changes to their schooling and related activities, to the pressures on their parents, to possibly seeing a loved one grow ill—or worse—from the virus, this year has uniquely impacted children. So we hope Santa’s City Lights provides a fun, safe way to come out and experience the simple joys of the season.”
Co-sponsored by the City of Stuart, which is putting up several trees, as well as Florida Power & Light Company—which is outfitting the park with speakers so visitors can hear favorite holiday songs as they walk the site—Santa’s City Lights will remain open through Dec. 28, ensuring people can visit at their own pace and space.
“We’re really excited about this event,” says Davis Dyess, Stuart city manager. “Stuart loves coming together as a community, especially during the holidays. But like everything, our traditions have been significantly impacted by the pandemic. So we appreciate the Martin County Realtors® of the Treasure Coast coming up with a safe, socially distanced way that people can come downtown, celebrate the season and still enjoy a sense of community.”