Ryan Bautista | News Editor
December 12, 2024
Every year, San Clemente shows out for Christmas by Puttin’ on the Glitz across downtown. This classic event shuts down Del Mar annually and adorns it with Christmas cheer.
Starting at the top of the street next to the historic City Hall, the abundance of Christmas cheer is obvious wherever you look. From Christmas lights dizzying your eyes to Christmas music assaulting your ears wherever you turn, Christmas has come to town. Sophomore Stephen Fitzpatrick described “the Christmas atmosphere” as his favorite part of the festivities and how “the energy that night was fantastic.”
Walking down from the crest, bright booths from all across San Clemente draw your attention to the many options to celebrate Christmas. Whether it is fun crafts for children or shopping for last-minute homemade Christmas gifts, there are always options in this festive event.
Turning around, guess what, there’s more Christmas music! This time of year it seems to be everywhere, and Puttin’ on the Glitz is no exception. At least this time it is more unique, with many performers of all ages singing their favorite Christmas tunes for all to hear.
Moving on from the first 100 feet, booths continue to line the street including ones from our school. Triton Wrestling, Dance, Soccer, and Swimming were represented well, with students manning the booths and selling their respective merch. SCHSEF and other Triton-affiliated associations were also in attendance helping spread cheer on behalf of our school.
Walk a few more feet and guess what? There’s more Christmas music, this time from a duet playing the violin and cello. Points for originality and uniqueness! Next up, more music! …What! It isn’t Christmas-themed?!
In front of the light show displayed on El Ranchito’s cylindrical tower, a dance floor plays favorites like “We Are Family” and other child-friendly songs. Junior Reese Hawbecker said this “was her favorite part”, especially because the DJ was Eric Anderson, “who she really likes.” With the bass turned up like it was a high school dance, I was all for it as well. This crazy environment was helped by the extreme amount of “snow” (a.k.a. bubbles) raining down from above.
Now…wait…where’s the constant music? Oh yeah, it’s the silent dance floor! With the longest line for a single section there, people can go inside a fenced-off area and wear headphones that blare music constantly. The only thing is, only people with headphones can hear it! Everyone else can watch while their FOMO develops as people have fun dancing. Oh, that’s why there’s such a long line.
Passing the jazz band playing Christmas songs–there we go, back to tradition–in sequined suits that make everyone else look bland, you finally reach the bottom. Yay!
All in all, Puttin’ on the Glitz is a San Clemente tradition that reflects our town’s Christmas spirit. Now to walk back to your car… only at the top of Del Mar if you’re lucky.
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