For more than 60 years, Montecito’s beloved holiday tree tradition has brought magic and cheer to the community. It began with Montecito Fire Captain Don Hathaway, who secretly decorated a small tree near San Ysidro Road and the freeway with the help of family and neighbors under the cover of night, delighting residents for decades. About twelve years ago, Don shared the secret of the “Secret Santa” tree and asked that the tradition continue. With the support of the Montecito Beautification Committee and Montecito Fire, the tree grew into a cherished community symbol. When the original tree became diseased and was removed on the same day as Don Hathaway’s funeral, a new Blue Aptos Redwood was quickly secured through California Forestry and Santa Barbara County Parks and planted at Manning Park. Today, the beautifully decorated Hathaway Memorial Tree continues to shine each holiday season, honoring Don’s legacy and the spirit of community he inspired.

Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is again opening its arms to the community for their 43rd Annual Light Up a Life ceremonies. The events offer warm, unifying, shared spaces for the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Carpinteria to remember and honor the loved ones whose absence is felt during the holiday season. Ceremonies are free and open to the public. While the holiday season is often associated with joy, it frequently stirs a complex mix of feelings. For individuals navigating this time while grieving a loss, the emotions can be especially raw. HSB understands that this period requires both remembrance and support, which is why HSB proudly hosts Light Up a Life annually to honor those who are deeply missed.