Downtown Estacada commissioners discussed plans for this year’s downtown tree lighting during their Aug. 4 meeting, focusing on decorations, staging and possible coordination with other holiday events.

Organizers said the tree-lighting format will be similar to last year but is likely to include a hot-drink walk, vendor booths on Main Street and a stage (potentially a flatbed truck). “Same same same basic concept as last year,” one organizer said, noting a possible time change and efforts to secure a flatbed for a stage.

Commissioners explored adding attractions to extend visitor stay and cross-promote other activities, including a carriage or tractor-drawn wagon as a backup for rides and fake snow or bubble machines to create a “snow on Main Street” effect, weather permitting. A participant noted cost ranges for snow machines, with small units from about $200–$500 and larger units costing up to several thousand dollars.

Members discussed coordinating the tree lighting with the chamber’s Christmas light parade the following weekend. The organizer suggested contacting Nancy at the chamber to explore whether the parade’s timing might be aligned to encourage attendees to stay longer downtown.

Performance elements were also discussed: the high school choir commonly performs on a flatbed, and local churches were cited as sources for carolers. Commissioners suggested checking contacts at the high school and churches to secure participation.

Several safety and compliance questions came up. Commissioners were reminded to check with the fire marshal about any open-flame activities; the group discussed whether a sponsored s'mores station would qualify as a vendor or must be arranged as city-hosted activity and thus avoid vendor limits.

Organizers also raised staging and storage logistics, noting that whoever puts up the tree typically takes it down and that public works stores decorations. They plan outreach to confirm who will supply and remove the tree and decorations.

Ending: The commission will follow up with the chamber, high school and public works to finalize staging, sound and entertainment; weather-dependent features such as fake snow will be pursued if feasible and permitted.