Abi Carter, American Idol Phenom, Achieves Local Holiday Honor

PALM SPRINGS, CA —Indio native and "American Idol" season 22 winner and Abi Carter was tasked with illuminating the 45-foot holiday tree with over 4,000 LED lights at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway's tree-lighting ceremony, officials announced this week.

At 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8, Carter will be joined by KESQ's chief meteorologist and television presenter Patrick Evans, along with the Palm Springs High School Choir and String Quartet, which will be performing holiday classics.

Past celebrities who have served as the tramway's tree-lighter include actress Judith Chapman, UFC Hall of Famer Cub Swanson, and HGTV hosts Eric and Lindsey Bennett.

Carter was the first Platinum Ticket recipient to win "American Idol." On the "Hometown Hero Visit" of her season, she stopped at the tramway and was presented with Indio's key to the city in May.

Following her victory, she returned to the Coachella Valley to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" at a Firebirds game and performed her debut full concert at Acrisure Arena.

She was also announced as part of next year's Stagecoach country music festival lineup.

The ceremony will be open to the public and included in the price of admission. More information can be found at www.pstramway.com.