For being a lower-budget affair, last night's tree lighting and carnival was still fun.  The BIS band, the Burlingame Idol and the North Shore Montessori choir performed before the tree was set ablaze.  The vintage firetruck made a circuit with councilmembers and Santa and Mrs. Claus.  At least one merchant (Haven) kept the spirit going by serving wine and several restaurants appeared to being doing well.

"We miss the parade" was a common theme among the locals, but with the way the economy has been creeping along, I can understand why the Avenue merchants were hesitant to kick-in their usual $25K that it takes to produce the parade.  Thanks to the Putnam dealerships and the other merchants for donating the funds to do it as well as it was done.  Here's the BIS band.