TEHACHAPI, Calif. — The Tehachapi Christmas tree has officially been lit and is now available for the public to take family photographs and welcome in the holiday season!
In the past 15 years, the official lighting of the Christmas tree at the Historic Depot in Downtown Tehachapi has followed the annual Christmas Parade and a visit by Santa. Due to the pandemic and restrictions on large gatherings, the City of Tehachapi felt it was best to assemble the tree and light it without any announcement.
“This has not been a normal year, I’m so happy to get it up and lit for everyone to enjoy. The Christmas tree is a sign of joy and I hope everyone has a fantastic holiday season,” said Mayor Susan Wiggins.
The Public Works Department for the City of Tehachapi worked very hard to set up the Christmas tree earlier than years past. Mike Pera from the Public Works Department has been assembling the Christmas tree every year for the city for the past 15 years.
“I’m known as Mr. Christmas, I do this because I love to do it, it’s what a small town is all about. When I see it, it makes me feel warm,” said Pera.
“This is about spreading holiday cheer during some tough times,” said Greg Garrett Tehachapi City manager. “Families take their annual Christmas card photos next to the tree every year, we didn’t want that tradition to be lost to the pandemic as well.”
The Christmas tree is located at the Historic Tehachapi Depot at 101 W. Tehachapi Blvd. in Downtown Tehachapi.
