From all walks of life, people gathered at Ashley Pond at last year’s Christmas Eve to share in the beauty and joy of the season. Courtesy photo
On Christmas Eve 2024, the farolitos and lights of Ashley Pond were the perfect backdrop for a special night. Courtesy photo
Christmas Eve 2024: music filled Ashley Pond as our community came together to sing and celebrate the hope of the season. Courtesy photo
FREEDOM CHURCH NEWS RELEASE
Every December, Ashley Pond turns into a gathering place filled with bright lights, familiar faces, typically some farolitos (put out by the local Scouts), and the unmistakable warmth of the season. This year, Freedom Church is inviting the entire Los Alamos community to join them on Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 4:30 p.m. for their annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. It has become one of the town’s most cherished holiday moments.
Families with little ones. Couples stopping by before dinner. Neighbors catching up with each other. People who attend every year and people who wander in for the first time. They all find themselves watching the candles flicker and feeling part of something bigger than themselves.
The event features classic Christmas carols, the reading of the Christmas story, a message of hope from Pastor Mike Brake, and the candle lighting that fills the park with a soft golden glow. The focus of the night is simple. It is a celebration of the birth of Jesus and the hope his story still brings to the world today. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, even for those who are exploring faith for the first time.
Hot cocoa and hand warmers will be available to keep everyone warm. Children can enjoy small games and gifts that make the night even more fun and special. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly and arrive early.
What makes this evening stand out is the way it brings people together. Los Alamos is full of scientists, hikers, young families, retirees, and people who have moved here from every corner of the world. Yet for one night, everyone stands side by side singing the same carols and sharing the same light. Many say this is THE moment that makes Christmas feel like Christmas.
Freedom Church hopes the event serves as a gift to the town. It is entirely free, open to all, and created to offer something everyone can appreciate, whether they come with faith, curiosity, or simply a desire to pause and enjoy a peaceful evening outdoors.
More information and planning details can be found at www.ChristmasInLosAlamos.com or by visiting Freedom Church at www.FreedomLA.church. You can also follow the church on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/freedomla.church for photos, reminders, and community news.Los Alamos residents are invited to bring their families, invite a neighbor, and take part in a memorable Christmas Eve experience at the pond. It is a tradition that continues to remind our community what matters most during the holiday season: light, connection, and hope found in the Christmas story.
A breathtaking sunset on Christmas Eve 2024 was the perfect backdrop for an evening of celebration at Ashley Pond. Courtesy photo
Pastor Mike Brake shares a message Dec. 24, 2024 that spoke of true Christmas hope. Courtesy photo