On Friday, over 20 businesses participated in the Sebastian Light Up Night, offering free goodies, chances to win things, and special discounts.
Everyone enjoyed the night, and most people were dressed up for the holidays with festive attire. The lights at the businesses were beautiful and still worth checking out while they’re up.
This annual event was created to give small businesses a chance to open their doors to the public, encouraging locals to shop, and a chance for business owners to show their appreciation.
In the center of Riverview Park sits an amazing Christmas tree. It’s an annual tradition, and it lights up at dusk.
On this day, there were children running towards the tree as they arrived at the park. Other people were checking out the wildlife, such as the squirrels and birds. It’s a very peaceful place to walk your dog or sit on a bench.
Missing this year is the traditional Santa’s House, as there were concerns about COVID-19. The house will be there next year.
The Sebastian River Junior Woman’s Club on U.S. Highway 1 showed off their holiday lights, as they do each year. The location is a small red house, with lights all around it.
There was also stuff going on behind the building as well. They did a great job decorating.
Traffic was very minimal with the help of Sebastian Police volunteers. Everything went smoothly during the event, which lasted about 2 1/2 hours.
Sebastian Police Department’s C.O.P.E. team was also near the Chamber building making free popcorn for the kids, thanks to Officer Jason Gillette and Officer Donald Hart. They were also handing out free t-shirts. I love this town!
We then drove down to Treasure Coast Tee’s, located in the plaza across the street from Wendy’s. Their store was nicely decorated outside with a large sign explaining everything they do.
Inside Treasure Coast Tee’s, they had a nice Christmas tree lit with presents under it. They were quite busy as people entered the store to ask about their services.
We then took a trip up to McDonald’s, north of Sebastian in Roseland, because we heard The Grinch was going to be there. We couldn’t miss out on that!
There he was in the parking lot, inviting children for free cookies and milk. There was a table set up near the McDonald’s drive-thru.
While there, we ran into Sebastian City Councilman Fred Jones. You can find Jones at just about every Sebastian event. He’s very involved with the community and donates a lot of his time.
We then ran into Frank Nolan, the McDonald’s store manager. Nolan also does a lot for our community. He is known for helping the local homeless population. When Nolan is not working, he is busy checking on people and making sure they are well and fed.
The Village Square shops also had a lot of activity, and it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy the lights while they’re still up. The Village Tavern and Taste of Asia were busy handing out goodies.
Light Up Night in Sebastian wasn’t like the years prior because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was one of the best things that could happen to our city.
Sebastian has done some wonderful things recently to help people stay positive, while being safe. It gives people some hope during this moment of time when everything seems plagued with negativity.