The courtyard of the Manteca Civic Center had the holiday spirit on Thursday.

“It was all outdoors,” said City of Manteca Recreation Supervisor Brandy Clark at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.

She was referring to the arts & crafts, photos with Santa, activities – included were old fashioned carnival games – and cookies and hot chocolate served up, free to those attending this long-running community event.

Part of the reason for that had to do with the renovations taking place in the Manteca Senior Center.

The mild cool weather in the mid-50s also cooperated as children of all ages made their way to the various stations throughout the City facility.

The highlight, of course, was the tree-lighting of the large evergreen in front of the civic center. Mayor Ben Cantu, with help from several local youngsters, turned on the switch to power the decorative bulbs placed by Parks Maintenance Supervisor Scott Heaton and his crew.

“They also put up the lights along downtown and around here (at the Manteca Civic Center),” Clark said.

She was thrilled to see the community out in strong numbers, in particular, since last year’s tree-lighting event was conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s nice to see everyone back here after two years – this is something positive for our City,” Cantu added.

Entertainment included a musical performance by Jonathan Cushman as well as performances from Cub Scouts Pack 423 and the Generations Batton Team under the direction of Dandy Manuel.

After the traditional lighting of the tree, attendees took the pleasure of placing their homemade ornaments on the tree.

The holiday event was again made possible by the Manteca Recreation & Community Services Division coupled with the Manteca Senior Center.