Neighbor News
Shadi Holiday Display in El Cerrito - Dec. 10 to 26
Visit the historic, hand-crafted display at 7501 Moeser Lane; lights & music nightly 5-10 pm. More info at www.ShadiHolidayDisplay.com.
What: Vintage Holiday Display: Sundar Shadi's Holiday Display in El Cerrito:
Little Town of Bethlehem with hand-crafted figurines; 68th year
Where: 7501 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito
Find out what's happening in El Cerritofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
When: Sunday, December 10th through Tuesday, December 26th
· Sunday morning: Volunteers will put up the display Dec. 10th from 9 to 11 a.m.
Find out what's happening in El Cerritofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
· Lights and music on nightly from 5 to 10 p.m.
· Musical performances Dec. 12, 13, 15 17, 18 and 21—all at 7 pm.
· Take down will be Dec. 27th from 9 to 11 a.m.
Background:
Mr. Sundar Shadi, an immigrant from India who attended Cal in the 1920’s, first put a twinkling blue star on the hillside near his home on Arlington Boulevard in El Cerrito. Over the years, Mr. Shadi hand-crafted three wise men, sheep and shepherds, camels and villagers, and the “Little Town of Bethlehem” to the delight of his neighbors. Visiting the display became a beloved part of the holiday tradition for generations.
After Mr. Shadi’s death in 2002, The Soroptimists of El Cerrito obtained the collection. Since then, volunteers have restored the figurines and maintained the display each year. A committee meets throughout the year to make arrangements for repairs, electrical service and lighting, musical performances and website updates.
This year, Boy Scout Troop 104 and their parents will again participate set up and take down. The committee is hoping for a big turnout of community volunteers for set up on Sunday, December 10th (from 9-11 a.m.); one camel made from plaster requires four strong people to carry in a custom sling! (The small sheep are much lighter and can easily be carried by one person.)
Keep a family tradition-- or start a new one! Bring the kids for musical performances; check the website for dates. Enjoy the 68th year of the Shadi Holiday Display. See you there!
Website: The new website includes photos, video, drone footage and memories from visitors (as shared on the Facebook page) + links for volunteers and donations. www.ShadiHolidayDisplay.com
Facebook: New photos, videos and articles are shared daily. Long-time visitors are posting their memories of cherished holiday visits with family and friends. https://www.facebook.com/Sundar-Shadi-Holiday-Display-in-El-Cerrito-CA-207229456028912/