Dazzling displays light up Wasco

In partnership with the City of Wasco, the Wasco Recreation and Parks District spread Christmas cheer last week with its Light Up Wasco Christmas Cruise. This Dial-a-Ride tour showcased homes transformed into dazzling displays of holiday lights and decorations. The event featured a competition for the best-designed homes, and guests had the opportunity to vote for their favorites.

District Manager Chris Serna shared, "We loved having everyone stop by to drop off their letters to Santa, visit Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Gingerbread Men, and take photos with them before grabbing some hot cocoa and a cookie. It was heartwarming to see the community come together for such a joyful celebration."

Oscar Enciso appreciated the convenience and thoughtful planning of touring the homes on the bus. "Not having to drive around on my own, I was able to enjoy the homes with my family. The bus driver was very helpful, providing information about the houses. It was also nice that the Parks and Rec had cookies and drinks for us. They really made it festive."

He attended the cruise with his wife, Denise, daughter, Marcy, and son, Johnny, commenting on the creativity of the displays. "My favorite was the house with the Grinch theme and the big Grinch on the roof."

Anahi Medina, who attends college at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and was home for the holidays, said it was a pleasant excursion with her family. It was her first tour of this kind, and she was very impressed. "It was a lot of fun, and it was nice to see everybody's reactions to the different houses. There was so much holiday spirit, and it was great for the community to come together. The decorations in the competition were original, and some of the houses were extra special, like the one with the synchronized lights to the music. I'm glad I had the opportunity to participate, and I would definitely recommend it to others to try next year."

For Councilmember Gilberto Reyna, attending the cruise has become a holiday tradition. "This year's Light Up Wasco tour was as delightful as ever. It was filled with Christmas spirit and offered something special for everyone to enjoy, from the warm hot chocolate and scrumptious cookies to the festive, beautifully decorated homes. Families and friends shared laughter and made memories as they admired the creativity and effort put into the spectacular displays. This tour is a favorite among our local families."