The City of SeaTac Parks, Community Programs & Services department announced on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020 that it has canceled this year’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting event. 

The decision was driven by the state’s new COVID-19 restrictions announced by Gov. Jay Inslee on Sunday.

This is the first time the City has canceled the holiday event since it began in 1999, the city said. In previous years, the celebration has provided an opportunity for the community to gather to celebrate the season with holiday songs from local children, entertainment, arts and craft for kids, along with food and refreshments.

Despite the cancellation, the tree at the SeaTac Community Center and the trees on City Hall property will be lit Dec. 1-31 to celebrate the holiday season.

“Thanks for your understanding and for following state and county health officials’ guidance for a safe and healthy fall and winter,” the city said in a statement.