Family Tradition Lighting the Way

As is tradition, people all around Sonoma are putting up Christmas lights just as they have in past years most notably downtown Sonoma, with the decorations around the town hall and on the trees.  During these past weeks, I have noticed residents of Sonoma have been getting into the Christmas spirit and setting up Christmas lights.  

Ella Perkins, junior,  has been setting up Christmas lights around her aunt’s house for years: “We have been putting up lights every year that I can remember. The tradition started with my grandpa and aunt, and now my aunt and I.”

During COVID, it has been tough to stay motivated, but not for Ella. She says, “We usually spend around two weeks on the lights; it takes a lot of test runs and scary ladder climbing; however, it is always worth it in the end.” 

Christmas is a time of joy, so Perkins has made it her mission to bring joy because “it feels really cool to know my aunt and I can spread joy, especially in these difficult times. I always enjoy spending time with my cousins outside, and we can see the cars slowing down to look at the lights, and often honking or complimenting them. It feels amazing to see the joy it gives to my cousins as well as other kids and Sonoma, and the fact that many people look forward to it each year makes it even.”