For the first time in over a decade, there will be a harvested tree at the center of Reflection Plaza in downtown Washougal

The city of Washougal kicks off the holiday season with the Lighted Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting — and something a little extra this year — on Thu., Dec. 1. For the first time in over a decade, there will be a harvested tree at the center of Reflection Plaza in downtown Washougal.

“We are so appreciative to have received a donated tree this year,” commented Community Engagement Manager Rose Jewell. “I’m really excited for the event because it’s a wonderful time for the community to come together in Washougal’s living room. It brings out the best in people.”

The existing, living tree in the corner of the plaza used for past celebrations had limited visibility. In favor of something more accessible and festive for the public to gather around, city leaders began seeking possible donations from community members over the summer.

The seventeen-foot grand fir, donated by the Keister Family of Clark County, was cut, transported, and mounted at Reflection Plaza in mid-November. The tree and plaza will be decorated with nearly 7,000 lights.

“We are thrilled that this beautiful tree we’ve enjoyed for many years will now have the honor of being Washougal’s Christmas tree,” expressed Larry Keister.  

The family was planning on cutting down the tree selected in the near future due to its proximity to a nearby powerline, and they thought it would make a perfect fit for this year’s celebration. Larry Keister is a longtime commissioner at the Port of Camas-Washougal. He and his wife Sherri have been active in the community for many years.

Event details

The parade will run along Main Street and end at Washougal River Road. The tree lighting will take place in Reflection Plaza. During and after the parade, the city is serving complimentary cookies and hot cocoa. Entertainment will include performances from the Washougal High School music program. Santa and Mrs. Claus will bring up the end of the parade and be available for photos with kids (and adults) of all ages. Event sponsors include Waste Connections, Washougal Coffee, and the Keister Family. 

Event schedule

• 5-6 p.m. – Selfies with Santa (bring your own camera)
• 6 p.m. – Parade begins
• 6:45 p.m. – Tree lighting ceremony in Reflection Plaza; Selfies with Santa continues

Event livestream

For those unable to attend, the event will be livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page starting at 6pm (https://facebook.com/WashougalGov).

Participate in the parade

The city is accepting applications from local businesses, organizations, and community groups to participate in the parade. Entry is free and all floats or groups must be lighted in some fashion. Applications are due by Mon., Nov. 28 at noon and can be found at City Hall and online at http://www.cityofwashougal.us/ParadeApplication. Awards will be given for Best Use of Lights, Best Use of Music, and Santa’s Choice. Entry categories include float (pickup truck, flatbed), band, drill team, automobile (single vehicle or car clubs), walkers, and equestrian.