Oh, Christmas Tree: Mercer Island Shines With Holiday Lights, Spirit

A steady stream of holiday well-wishers and children gathered Friday night in to attend the annual .

Before the Christmas tree was lit, presenters Miley and Thomas and DJ Alex from Radio Disney 1250AM kept the kids entertained with dancing and games focused on recycling and developing "green", envionmentally friendly habits. The pre-lighting show was sponsored by local trash contractor Allied Waste.

"This is a tremendous opportunity to get the message out about recycling and ways to keep your holiday 'green'," said Allied Waste spokesperson Anne Laughlin. "Wrapping paper, cards, ornaments and Christmas trees are all either re-usable or recyclable and we want to encourage parents and children to keep that in mind during the holiday season."

Across SE 32nd Street, local businesses and firefighters at offered visitors a bowl of hot chili, cider and various goodies — including an arts and crafts table where children could fashion their own deorative "reindeer horns". And dozens of expectant children waited their turn for a photo with Santa Claus.

The Firehouse Munch was sponsored by the 's Parks and Recreation and , , Hamm Radio Operators, , , , , Alaska USA Mortgage, and .