Santana Row lights up with dance and celebration

With an exciting and joyous day of celebration for the community, Santana Row kicked off the 2015 holiday season. The annual “Light Up the Row” tree lighting ceremony took place on Nov. 18.

The district was crowded with families, local residents and groups of friends. The holiday festivities began at 5 p.m. with Santa photos. The fun continued throughout the evening with live music, costumed characters, special guests and performances by local theater and dance groups.

When the skies darkened, the row lit up brightly. The view was breathtaking.

Many of the restaurants offered dining specials, kid-friendly menus and holiday-themed cocktails during the event. People could also join in-store parties and try hot chocolate sampling, cookies and appetizers.

Big sale signs were hung in front of H&M, Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie and the stores was packed like bees in a hive.

Valley Fair mall within walking distance made it even more fabulous to start early Christmas shopping, considering higher prices at Santana Row.

The highlight of the day, the lighting of the 40-foot Christmas tree, took place at 7 p.m. in Santana Row Park. It was magical, and when that tree lit up, the holiday season spirit was in the air.

People eager to snatch a photo with the tree formed lines, and soft sounds of “ooh’s” and “awe’s” lingered.

Around 7:30 p.m., performances started. People could see “The Nutcracker” from Ballet San Jose, CMT San Jose’s Marquee production of “The Little Mermaid” and a special performance “America’s Got Talent” and “So You Think You Can Dance” from The Academy of Villains.

Also, Santana Row’s honorary guest Lilly’s Wish was celebrated in collaboration with Make A-Wish Greater Bay Area.

People can enjoy live music and choirs near the Oak Tree lounge from 6-9 p.m., as well as take a photo with “Alice in Wonderland” from Silicon Valley Ballet. Lines were insanely long, but they went by fast and the wait was well worth it.

This annual event is something folks wouldn’t want to miss. Every year this event gets more crowded, decorations get more beautiful and festivities get more fun.