Holiday Bonfires
In many regions of California bonfires are prohibited, but in New Orleans on Christmas Eve a 100-year tradition takes place along the levee. Over 100 bonfire structures made of wood and firecrackers are covered with kerosene, then all are ignited simultaneously to welcome the arrival of Papa Noel. California’s bonfire festivals are less dramatic but hold special meaning, nevertheless. On Dec. 19, 2014, the townsfolk in San Juan Bautista gather at Annual Holiday Bonfire / Hayden Christmas Celebration beginning at sunset. The annual bonfire is a tribute to the Hayden Family. During the depression era, the family pooled their money to help buy candies, toys and oranges for the community children. They erected a bonfire to bring together the people in town, and celebrated with games and songs while keeping warm. Another annual bonfire tradition after Christmas takes place in Solvang where they burn their Christmas trees in a big bonfire in January. In addition to the San Juan Bautista bonfire event, other celebrations this week include:
- LINDSAY Parade 0f Lights December 19, 2014, 6 p.m.
- LONG BEACH David Benoit Charlie Brown Christmas Concert at the Carpenter Center with All American Boys Chorus Dec. 20
- LOS ANGELES Music Center Holiday Sing-Along Dec. 19, 2014
- MODESTO Living Nativity Dec. 19-21, 2014
- NEVADA CITY Donation Day Parade December 19, 2014 10 a.m. to Noon
