Holbrook kicked off the holiday season last week with an official lighting of the tree at Gillespie Park. The event brought out people in the community and kids who made ornaments while patiently waiting for Santa to show up on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
Holbrook kicked off the holiday season last week with an official lighting of the tree at Gillespie Park. The event brought out people in the community and kids who made ornaments while patiently waiting for Santa to show up on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Photo by Tim Kelley
Included in the festivities were performances by Native American dancers in full regalia. Here performer Nelson Nez stands in front of the tree.
Holbrook resident Pete Johnson entertained the crowd at Gillespie Park taking part in the community tree lighting with his saxophone playing.
District II Supervisor Alberto Peshlakai addressed those in attendance at the tree lighting. Also pictured is Holbrook Mayor Kathleen Smith (center) and event organizer Mark Romo (right).
Santa and Mrs. Claus visited with the numerous kids who attended the event, hoping to provide St. Nick with their list for the holiday.

On Monday, Dec 2, Holbrook kicked off the holiday season with a tree lighting celebration at Gillespie Park. The crowd of people showed how excited the community is to start off this holiday season, and how happy everyone is to celebrate as a community.

These festivities included performances by Pete Johnson, Hulet’s Rockin’ Roadrunners, and Holbrook’s Native Summer Dance Group. There were also vendors selling homemade items, as well as potential Christmas gifts, food trucks, and a visit from Old Saint Nick. Santa Claus visited the holiday kick-off in style, by riding in on his motorcycle with Mrs. Claus hiding behind him, a Holbrook tradition that began last year. The two stayed to spread Christmas cheer and meet with the youth and the young at heart. This event surely got everyone in the Christmas spirit!