A night of true hospitality

Laguna Beach residents were treated Friday to a special night of music, food, shopping and a visit from Santa Claus.

The city and Chamber of Commerce hosted Hospitality Night, an annual event that culminates in Santa riding to City Hall to light the pepper tree with the mayor. The event started with the Laguna Presbyterian Church’s craft bazaar, bell choir concert and community sing-along in the church garden and a performance by the Laguna Community Band.

Santa made his debut in a 1931 Seagrave pumper engine driven by retired Laguna Beach Fire Department Capt. Eugene D’Isabella. Performances included the Thurston Middle School band and Anneliese School’s choir and Kyle MacNaughton, Scott Larson and Davey Armstrong of Nicholson Pipes and Drums played in the Tuvalu store.

Hobie Sports was alive with the sound of music featuring performances by International reggae artist Pato Banton; local artist Ken Garcia; Sharp Turn Ahead, the local twin brother duo of Kyle and Benjamin Sharp; and guitarist David Gomez of the Now Generation band.

— Britney Barnes