Ferndale Celebrates Holiday Spirit with Tree Lighting Ceremony

Every year, the small town of Ferndale, California, with a population of approximately 1,500, marks the beginning of the festive season with a cherished tradition known as Hospitality Night. This year, the event takes place on the first Friday of December, specifically on December 1, 2023. Local merchants adorn their storefronts with bright lights and decorated trees, inviting residents to enjoy an evening filled with food and community spirit.

The significance of food in this isolated river valley cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital connection among residents, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. The historical context of Ferndale is also notable; for years, culinary traditions have played a crucial role in shaping the town’s identity. Recipes have become so revered that they are often considered family heirlooms, with some even declared too precious to replicate.

On the first Sunday of December, the holiday season continues with the lighting of the town’s spruce tree by the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department. This year, the lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 3. The moment the lights are activated is met with a collective gasp from the crowd, as the community gathers to witness the transformation of the tree into a symbol of hope and joy.

This year’s ceremony coincides with the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, which occurred on December 7, 1941. As townspeople reminisce about that fateful day, stories emerge regarding how the community responded. Fire Chief Norm Clough and his crew were on hand to string the lights when the news of the attack reached Ferndale. They quickly dismantled the decorations, leaving the tree dark for several years. The poignant memory serves as a reminder of the uncertainty faced during wartime and the collective resolve of the community.

As the lighting ceremony approaches, some residents express concerns over the inclusion of political and religious messages in the program. There is a desire for a more simplified celebration, focusing on the essence of the season rather than divisive topics. Suggestions have been made to prioritize Christmas carols, a warm welcome, and a brief historical overview of the event, allowing the community to embrace the anticipation and joy of the holiday spirit without distractions.

The ceremony is not merely about the illumination of a tree; it represents a gathering of the community, reflecting on shared memories and looking forward to brighter days ahead. For those who wish to explore further, Wendy Reid Crisp Lestina, a local writer and former columnist, shares her insights on the tradition in her Substack, “And Then What Happened.” Her work can be accessed through the Ferndale Museum, where it is available for those interested in the town’s history and its connection to events like the tree lighting.

For many residents, the tree lighting and Hospitality Night serve as an annual reminder of the bonds that unite them, fostering a sense of togetherness that transcends time. In a world often filled with noise, the community seeks a moment of silence to reflect on the past and celebrate the present. As the season unfolds, Ferndale continues to honor its traditions while embracing the joyous spirit of the holidays.