Hospice of Santa Barbara to Celebrate 40th Annual Light Up a Life Ceremonies throughout Greater Santa Barbara

By the Hospice of Santa Barbara

Each year, Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) brings the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito and Carpinteria together for its annual Light Up a Life ceremony to remember and honor loved ones who are missed during the holiday season.

The holiday season can stir up a range of emotions, including joy, stress, sadness, and everything in between. For those preparing to navigate the holiday season without cherished loved ones, this time of year can be even more difficult and HSB honors them each year with Light Up a Life.

HSB will host four ceremonies, featuring speakers, poetry, music, refreshments, and the lighting of a memorial tree. There will also be a spiritual reflection at each ceremony led by HSB’s spiritual counselor, Kristen Rohm. Guests will also be able to hang one or more stars in memory of a loved one who has died or in honor of someone living. The Trees of Remembrance will remain lit at each site through the end of the year.

Emcees include Marybeth Carty and Reverend Julia Hamilton.
Musicians include Dos Pueblos Jazz Choir, Cold Springs School Chorus, and singer John Vale.
Poets include current poet laureate Melinda Palacio and past poet laureate Perie Longo.

Locations include:

• Santa Barbara (Lobero Theatre) – Sunday, December 3 at 5:30 pm
• Montecito (Upper Village Green) – Wednesday, December 6 at 4:00 pm
• Carpinteria (Seal Fountain) – Saturday, December 9 at 5:00 pm
• Goleta (Camino Real Marketplace) – Sunday, December 10 at 5:00 pm

Additional stars and refreshments will be available at each event.

Those who would like to participate but are unable to attend the in-person ceremonies can dedicate a star to a loved one on HSB’s Virtual Tree of Remembrance. For a suggested donation of $15, individuals can dedicate a digital star(s) with their loved one’s name, photo, and a special message.

“Light Up a Life is a nice way to start the holiday season and gather with community members to spread love and harmony,” said David Selberg, Hospice of Santa Barbara CEO. “It is an uplifting way to honor and remember our loved ones that are missed during this special time of year.”

All events are free. To dedicate a paper or virtual star, or for more information, please visit: www.hospiceofsb.org/lual

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