Crystal Cove tree lighting and holiday bazaar at the beach canceled due to COVID-19

It’s beginning to look not at all like Christmas.

At least not in Crystal Cove, which announced this week that it’d be canceling what would have been its 24th annual tree lighting and holiday bazaar at the beach. The Crystal Cove Conservancy said in a press release that it would be following guidelines from the state and county departments of health and California State Parks.

“We are sad not to be able to host this wonderful event again this year, but the health and safety of our members, park-goers, staff and volunteers remains our top priority,” officials said.

“We look forward to gathering with our neighbors again next year to welcome Santa back to the beach,” said conservancy staff. “Through this crisis, we’ve all seen how important protected natural spaces like Crystal Cove are to communities and we hope our neighbors and supporters will find their way here to explore the quiet of the park in winter until we can gather together again.”

Last year’s tree lighting and holiday bazaar included jewelry and handicrafts from local artists, seaglass wrapping, holiday arts and crafts and the arrival of Santa Claus on a lifeguard vehicle.

Another annual tree lighting in nearby Fashion Island was also canceled this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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