Summerlin celebrates the holidays

With seasonal celebrations planned for residents, Summerlin is known for its quality of life.

According to Tom Warden, senior vice president of community and government relations, the holiday season offers many different activities and events.

"The sights and sounds of the season are found in abundance throughout Summerlin," Warden said. "From family gatherings, decorated homes, bustling retail centers and full houses of worship throughout December, the community shines a little brighter this time of the year."

An annual holiday tradition is Hometown Holidays, a private event for residents. A two-evening event features appearances by Santa and other holiday characters, train and "reindeer" rides, carnival-type activities and cookie-decorating. Hometown Holidays is attended by thousands of Summerlin families.

Summerlin's 23 schools and 14 houses of worship representing a variety of faiths also mark the holidays in a number of ways. From holiday-themed programs and pageants to special events surrounding Hanukkah at the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Educational Campus, holiday celebrations in Summerlin are inclusive and diverse.

"Many churches host a variety of activities including choir performances, traditional Hanukkah celebrations, Christmas pageants and special services that are open to the public," Warden said.

A complete listing of worship sites is available at summerlin.com.

The Howard Hughes Corp., developer of Summerlin, has partnered with the Las Vegas Springs Preserve for the second year to encourage residents to participate in its Christmas Tree Recycling Program which, according to Warden, is consistent with Summerlin's environmental orientation and preservation.

For more information, call 888-898-5015, or visit summerlin.com