The Rodeo Drive Committee, in collaboration with the city of Beverly Hills, hosted the annual Rodeo Drive holiday lighting celebration on Nov. 14. According to the city, more than 9,000 people attended this year’s event, which serves as a kickoff to the holiday season. This year’s theme was “Rodeo Nights, Holiday Lights,” with highlights that included musical guests as well as candy cane street sweepers, stilt walkers and roller-skating performers. Food trucks dotted the street, serving offerings that included smash burgers, grilled cheese, gluten-free baked goods and schnitzel. The event also featured an appearance from Santa Claus himself and the traditional large fireworks display.
“The holiday season is truly one of the most memorable times of the year. We can all come together as family, friends and neighbors to celebrate a little happiness during a time when we need a little light in our lives as we see some of the darkest events occurring throughout our world,” Mayor Lester Friedman said in a statement.
Photos by Sean Beckner-Carmitchel
Friedman, members of the Beverly Hills City Council, the Rodeo Drive Committee, Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, and members of the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau joined together on the main stage at Brighton Way and Rodeo Drive to welcome Santa Claus and countdown the illumination of Rodeo Drive. A recording of Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime” played as the palm trees dotting Rodeo Drive lit up.
Performers gracing the stage throughout the evening included The Red-Hot Band featuring Tera Bonilla, Blue Grass Strings, Holiday Harmony Carolers and a Yuletide Irish Dance Ensemble. Additional entertainment was provided by UCLA a cappella group the ScatterTones, the Beverly Hills High School Drumline, NBC Songland Winner Greg Scott and “American Idol” finalist Vonzell Solomon. CoryLive served as the master of ceremonies.
A large fireworks display capped the evening off, drawing admiration from the crowd.
June Caldwell, who performed at the event with a group of friends called the Love Dance Tribe, told the Courier, “We just appreciate that Beverly Hills does this.” Everyone is ready for the holidays to start early this year!”
