Snow, cold can’t keep crowd away from Draper tree-lighting ceremony
Nov 30, 2022, 1:47 PM
DRAPER, Utah — A powerful winter storm didn’t keep dozens away from Draper City Park Monday night as the city put on its traditional tree-lighting festivities to start the Christmas season.
Cold temperatures, wind, and inches of snow in the hours prior to the event led to a smaller crowd than normal, according to city officials. However, a large crowd still cheered as more than three million lights turned on in trees around the park, including on a large willow tree that serves as the park’s holiday centerpiece.
“Yeah, I don’t mind standing in the cold,” said Makayla Larkins, who stated that she had come to the event in several past years with her family. “It’s fun and it’s the holidays!”
It seemed most who turned out shared a good attitude about the adverse weather conditions, saying that it felt more like a wintery scene anyway.
“You dress accordingly, call it good and it’s fun!” exclaimed Adrianna Balls.
Randilee Wilde said the event was “perfect” for Christmas as she stood under the golden glow of the lit willow tree.
“Less people, more snow — I’m OK with that!” she smiled.