Christmas trees of all shapes and sizes filled the parking lot of the Middlefield Ballpark on Dec. 1. Sea Scouts’ Christmas Trees, an annual event running from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21, is hosted by the local Sea Scouts and volunteers. This event is a fundraiser for the Scouts and an opportunity for families to purchase a tree for the holiday season. Sea Scout Andrew Gold finds joy in supporting buyers on their quest for the perfect tree. He also highlights the value in having the Sea Scouts run the fundraiser. “I really enjoy helping customers find the trees that they like and getting to see their excitement when they pick out the correct tree,” he said. “(This event) helps (Scouts) get leadership skills and learn how to correctly manage trees and also how to sell them to customers.”

Customer Rachel Rigo appreciated the event’s seasonal atmosphere. “It’s wonderful that the Scouts are learning maritime skills, and we want to support that,” she said. “We also think that it’s a really festive environment with lots of friendly people sharing the spirit of Christmas with Palo Alto.”

With candy canes at checkout and winter-themed decorations, this event is rewarding to both the volunteers, who learn useful
skills, and the customers, who support the Scouts’ cause.