The Tacachale Center will host its 40th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 5, in Gainesville.
The event will start at 6 p.m. with tree lighting activities beginning at 6:30 p.m. at 1621 NE Waldo Rd.
“As we prepare to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Tacachale, we are so grateful for a community that comes together to create a magical experience and special Christmas memories,” said Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch in a press release. “This is what the Christmas season is all about. I highly encourage the Gainesville community to show up for this wonderful event and experience it firsthand!”
The Tacachale Center, associated with the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), will open the event with a guest arrival as Santa Claus will possibly make a surprise appearance. Music and refreshments will be on hand and the event is open to the public.
“The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is the enchanting centerpiece of the holiday season at Tacachale, where the air is filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of seasonal treats,” said Tacachale Center Administrator Michael S. Mayfield in a press release. “This magical event gathers the community together to witness the grand moment when the towering tree, adorned with twinkling lights and colorful ornaments, transforms the evening into a dazzling display of holiday spirit.”
WCJB news anchor David Snyder will return as this year’s Master of Ceremonies and the Tacachale Gospel Choir, Ensemble Orchestra and 1000 Voices of Florida will provide the musical entertainment.
In the spirit of the season, the generosity of the Gainesville-area community is sought for the benefit of the residents and will be used to help fulfill the holiday wish lists of Tacachale residents. Donations made to the ‘Tacachale Developmental Disabilities Trust Account’ are tax deductible and can be mailed to:
Tacachale Volunteer Services
1621 NE Waldo Road
Gainesville, FL 32609