Photos and story by Puyallup Tribal Member Alex Harrison
On Friday, Dec. 19, the Puyallup Tribe held a drive-thru Christmas lights display at Chief Leschi Schools.
Social distancing was in place and Tribal community members were asked to stay in their vehicles while they drove around the circle, which was lined with decorations.
The displays were set up by Youth Center Director Lisa Earl and her team in coordination with 17 other Tribal departments.
“We’re just really happy to see all the children’s faces,” said Earl. “It’s so nice to see so much cheer.”
The rain seemed to stop right as the three-hour event began around 6 p.m. Hundreds of Tribal community members drove through the event.
“The mood is good and everyone seems to be enjoying it,” said Youth Coordinator Mercedes Haack. “It is really nice to see all the kids smile again, and the lights are great.”
At the end of the route, Tribal Council, dressed up as different Christmas characters, handed out stockings to Tribal youth. The cute 7-inch stockings were filled with holiday candies.
Chairman Bill Sterud made an appearance on top of the sleigh as Santa, along with his assistant elf, Council Member Anna Bean, who was happily telling everyone to have a Merry Christmas.
Additional info: View more photos and a couple of videos from the event on the Tribe’s Facebook page.
