Family donates tree to Washougal

The city of Washougal gave local residents a special gift during its annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting event, held Thursday, Dec. 1, in downtown Washougal.

The celebration marked the first time in a decade that the city has had a harvested holiday tree at the center of Reflection Plaza.

“We are so appreciative to have received a donated tree this year,” said Rose Jewell, the city’s community engagement manager.

Earlier this year, city leaders determined that the existing, living tree in the corner of the plaza used for past celebrations had “limited visibility” and started looking for “something more accessible and festive for the public to gather around,” according to a news release.

The 17-foot grand fir, donated by the Keister family of Clark County, was cut, transported and mounted at Reflection Plaza in mid-November. The tree and plaza were later decorated with nearly 7,000 lights.

“We are thrilled that this beautiful tree we’ve enjoyed for many years will now have the honor of being Washougal’s Christmas tree,” said Larry Keister, a Port of Camas-Washougal commissioner.

The Keister family had planned to cut down the tree due to its proximity to a nearby power line, but thought it would be a “perfect fit” for this year’s celebration, according to the news release.

In addition to the tree lighting, the event featured a parade along Main Street, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, performances from the Washougal High School music program, and appearances from “Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

The city gave prizes to three parade entries — Chuck’s Auto Body (Best Use of Music), Puffin Cafe (Best Use of Lights) and McDonald Excavating (Santa’s Choice).

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