The annual tree lighting ceremony in downtown Orlando had a different feel this year because of the Pulse shootings.
- 9th annual Orlando tree lighting celebration
- 72-foot tall tree decorated at Lake Eola
- Event featured live musical show
A performance of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” was dedicated to the people who died in the attack on Pulse. It was a solemn reminder through the celebration Friday night of what the city endured almost six months ago.
"It just really shows that the city can come together especially after Pulse and everything that happened with that," said Erin Page, owner of local jewelry designer Uncommon Love. "It's just nice to see the community full of joy, and it shows that healing is happening."
"I think bringing the community together anyway that we can just shows unity and shows love and showing some support for each other is always a good thing," said Encore!Cast Performing Arts' Tommy Mendoza, who performed at the event.
It was Orlando’s ninth annual tree lighting celebration. A 72-foot-tall tree is decorated at Lake Eola with 88,000 animated lights synchronized to a musical show.