It was a perfect Arizona winter night for Verrado residents – locals and “snow birds” alike – to enjoy Verrado’s 11th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration.
Thousands of Verrado residents and their guests were entertained by Verrado High School’s Marching Band and Pom Squads escorting in our special guest of the evening, Santa Claus. Complimentary photos with Santa were provided to each family by Main Street Dental. All of Main Street was bustling with our local eateries serving up tasty delights to every seat in their house, while just outside on the main stage Anderson Institute of Music and Performing Arts showcased a variety of their talented singers and dancers.
Young, local talent from Verrado Elementary School and Verrado Middle School’s 7th Grade choirs added to the holiday music entertainment. Our community partners hosted festive activities:
– Holiday games with Boy Scout Troop #448
– Tractor-drawn wagon rides with DLC Resources
– A play land of 15 tons of snow with Summit Community Church
– S’more making with The Goddard School
– Verrado Realty handed out travel mugs to keep residents cozy and warm this holiday season
– The Blue Daisy sold their tasty cupcakes
– The Barbershop on Main provided a craft experience for kids.
The 45-foot tree was lit in ceremonial style for the first time this holiday season, with Summit Community Church doing the honors of flipping the switch while the community watched in awe.
The season would not be complete without the spirit of generosity that exists amongst the residents of Verrado. During the Tree Lighting Celebration the Joy of Giving Committee hosted a raffle while our hometown grocer, Bashas’, donated hot chocolate to support the effort raising a total of $750 for their cause and keeping attendees warm and cheerful all night. Verrado’s Kennel Club hosted a Remembrance Tree, giving residents an opportunity to tie on an ornament with the name of their furry pet whom they lost over the past year. The tree will be planted so these memories live on.
Many guests stopped by the We Heart Christmas Home Tour booth, excitedly purchasing tickets and ready to experience the rest of the Hometown Holidays series to come this month! Earlier in the morning, The Center on Main™ served host to our quarterly blood drive, with 36 resident donors potentially helping save 108 lives.
On Sunday, December 7, the annual heart-warming tradition of the Joy of Giving Celebration was once again hosted at the Verrado Golf Club. Residents filled the room with toys, diapers, clothing and non-perishable food items and collected $6,000 in monetary donations. These donations are collected by Buckeye Outreach for Social Services who will provide thousands of families in need a brighter holiday.
The We Heart Christmas Home Tour, another philanthropic endeavor organized by a dedicated group of residents, took place Sunday, December 14 from 4-8 PM. Verrado residents open their homes to share the spirit and sparkle of Christmas traditions. All proceeds benefited Owl Love You Forever and Homeless Youth Connection.
And don’t forget the grand finale of celebrations this season – the Verrado Golf Club’s annual New Year’s Eve event, on Wednesday, December 31 from 7:30 pm – 1 am. Advanced purchase required; contact 623.388.3013.
From the entire Verrado Assembly team, we wish you a very Happy Holidays and a fabulous New Year!