Charlie Breitrose The Watertown Tree Lighting and other activities drew a crowd at the Commander’s Mansion.
Hundreds of children and their parents flocked to the Commander’s Mansion Saturday evening for the Watertown Tree Lighting.
One lucky family was selected in a raffle to turn on the lights on the Christmas tree set up outside the Mansion. The winning ticket was selected by the Mayor of Whoville, played by City Council President Mark Sideris.
The winning family was escorted over to the light switch next to the tree by a parade led by the Tuba Guy.
Charlie Breitrose
Before the lights went on, there were plenty of opportunities for fun, including getting a photo with Santa, the Grinch or Sparky the Fire Dog. They could also take a ride on the holiday trolley, or grab a cup of cocoa.
Dancers from Miss Maria’s School of Dance entertained the crowds during the event.
Charlie Breitrose
Kids got a chance to meet Santa, Sparky the Fire Dog and the Grinch. 
Inside the mansion, there were holiday crafts, story time and artisans selling gifts.
The Watertown Veteran’s Office joined the Pvt. Shutt Detachment Marine Corps League, and VFW Post 1105 to collect items for Toys for Tots and the Watertown Police Department’s Whooley Foundation.
Charlie Breitrose
Children sat down to hear a story inside the Commander’s Mansion during the Tree Lighting celebration. Charlie Breitrose
The entry to the Whoville Jubilee was lit by holiday lights. Charlie Breitrose
The whole cast of characters posed in front of the tree at the Commander’s Mansion.
Oh, the Who-manity!
“I’m all toasty inside.”
and may the spirit of giving, and of graceful receiving, be with you all.
I am curious: who owns the Commander’s Mansion?
The Mansion is owned by the City of Watertown.
At least this is a traditional beautiful tree. It is so nice to see people out enjoying the holiday season once again. However, the trees on the Delta are a disappointment this year. The light blue does nothing for the center area and the modern version of lights wrapped around the other trees look like something from Star Wars. I personally don’t think they are attractive. Thank goodness the Saltonstall Park on Main St. is decorated beautifully, and it is nice to see that St. Patrick’s Church has once again installed their life-size nativity scene on their front lawn, a nice balance to the area.
JR I agree. IMO tree lights should be peaceful, magical. The new lighting on the two Delta maples is a bad dream. It is weirdly frenetic and makes their living branches appear starkly amputated.
Anyone else remember when there were three beautiful maples on the Delta, and during the holiday season each year their branch structure was delicately outlined, one tree in red lights, one in green, and one in blue? Simple and gorgeous. We could do it again, Watertown…
Whomever setup the lights on the maples in Watertown Square should be fired. It’s an embarrassment.