Residents and visitors enjoyed the 25th annual Christmas Tree Bonfire in The Filling Station parking lot Jan. 22.
As the fire died down, people at the Christmas Tree Bonfire gathered closer enjoying their drinks and visiting with their neighbors.
The Filling Station's George Welch lighting the fire while owner Kris Martin (left front) stands back and watches.
SEELEY LAKE – Saturday, Jan. 22 new and long-time residents of Seeley Lake gathered for the 25th annual Christmas Tree Bonfire in The Filling Station parking lot. Hosted by Filling Station owners Kris Martin and George Welch, attendees visited with their neighbors, met new people and the children loved playing on the huge snow bank as the blaze of the fire kept them warm.
The Seeley Lake Chamber of Commerce dubbed the Christmas Tree Bonfire as the "kick-off event for Winterfest" in the 1998 Pathfinder. It remained that as long as Winterfest was held. The bonfire not only helped local residents dispose of their Christmas trees safely, it has also been a great night to connect the community.
Over the years, the event has included games for children, snow sculptures, fire dancers, a parade, music and fireworks. The Seeley Lake Fire Department has been a standby over the years. Volunteer firefighters have brought at least one engine to ensure the fire is contained and enjoy the opportunity to visit with the community.
"We wouldn't miss it," said one resident who has been coming to the event for 22 years.
Another resident commented that this is the first one they were finally able to come out for.
"This is great," he said. "I'll definitely be back next year."
While the Seeley Lake Area Chamber of Commerce was not involved this year, fireworks were provided by Seeley Lake residents Lisa and Eric Hayhurst and lit off at the end of the event.
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