PARTRIDGE (CREEK) IN A PEAR TREE

Mall celebrates 15 years of welcoming Santa, Christmas lights in annual tradition

The Mall at Partridge Creek celebrated a couple of big numbers on Sunday evening during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The outdoor shopping center on Hall Road in Clinton Township was not only feting its 15th anniversary, but also the fact that 11 new stores, eateries and entertainment spots have made Partridge Creek their home.

That’s 88 entities, including Lovisa, a fashion store that opened last week, and the new

Sabor Latino, serving Cuban and Columbian cuisine.

“Fifteen years of tree lighting ceremonies happening here tonight,” said mall general manager Melissa Morang. “And we’re still growing.”

In stark contrast to last year, when the area enjoyed a balmy 60-degree night, Santa and Mrs. Claus came to Macomb in more seasonable weather they were used to on the North Pole. Temperatures were in the 28-degree range, feeling like the teens with the wind factored in.

With a drum a

chant of “light the tree,” hundreds of people welcomed the Christmas couple as a huge tree decorated in twinkling purple lights illuminated followed by trees throughout the center adorned in green, white and blue light.

English Gardens of Clinton Township took several weeks to prepare the lights in the trees.

People in the crowd hugged each other — and their pets — as they pointed to the glowing trees.

“This looks beautiful,” said Michelle Retzler of Macomb Township.

Her husband, Brian, added: “We love it. It’s really nice to come out to see this every year.”

Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon presented Santa with the key to “all the good boys and girls’ hearts from all over Michigan so Santa can deliver presents to their homes.”

The night closed out Santa’s first weekend visit to Macomb County. On Friday night, he stopped by the Christmas Open House in downtown Mount Clemens followed the following morning by a visit to the annual Santa Parade.

The Partridge Creek event featured lots of freebies for kids and families including face painters, a photo booth, light up wand, and entertainment.

And nearby Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace donated cider and 18 boxes of 10 dozen donuts each, featuring powdered sugar and plain.

PHOTOS BY MITCH HOTTS — THE MACOMB DAILY Dan and Sharon Georges of Shelby Township pose with Michelle and Brian Retzler of Macomb in front of one of Partridge Creek’s illuminated trees Sunday night.

Looking dapper dressed in red, white and gold, Santa and Mrs. Claus were big hits at Sunday’s event at Partridge Creek Mall.