The City of West Palm Beach is making plans to welcome back the star of its annual Holiday in Paradise campaign, Sandi, the world’s only 35-foot, 700-ton holiday sand tree. She will return to the waterfront from Saturday, December 5, 2020, until New Year’s Eve, Thursday, December 31, 2020, for her 9th season. Sandi will host nightly music and light shows between 6 – 10 p.m. New this year will be a synchronized show with the City’s soon-to-be-completed Centennial Square Fountain, where the water will ‘dance’ to the music. Sandi will return to the Great Lawn, which is at the east end of Clematis Street, just west of Flagler Drive.
While many Sandi Land staples are suspended this year, some have been modified to continue traditions, including a visit with Santa. Anticipated elements include:
- Santa at Sandi - In true paradise fashion, Santa will be safely distanced in his lifeguard chair! His perch will be more than six feet in the air, and kids and families can safely gather for a photo opportunity at the bottom. City staff will encourage social distancing while families wait in line.
- Sing-along and/or Storytime with Sandi – Families are welcome to gather at the foot of the Sandi tree for an unforgettable experience, as Sandi sings along or reads aloud. Reservations will be required for this free event, where socially distanced markers on the lawn will promote safety.
- Surprise Pop-Up Entertainment – Unexpected entertainment elements will pop up throughout Sandi’s visit. Come often and stay alert so you don’t miss out on the festive and memory-making fun!
In order to comply with national, statewide, and local safety mandates, the City will skip the tree lighting ceremony and other coordinated events that typically draw larger crowds, such as the annual Sunday on the Waterfront Aloha Islanders show. Additionally, other high-touch activities, such as Glow FORE It Mini Golf, SnowieVille, and Sandi’s Dressing Room will be absent from the month-long holiday celebration.
Sandi is free to visit and enjoy. For more information about Holiday in Paradise and other City events, visit http://www.wpb.org/events, call (561) 822-1515 (TTY: 800-955-8771) or follow the City of West Palm Beach on Facebook @CityofWPB and on Twitter and Instagram @westpalmbch.