SACRAMENTO, California — Safety concerns about protests have caused the California State Capitol Tree Lighting to go virtual this year.
"As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales – and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families – the ceremony this year will be virtual," a spokesperson for the governor's office said in a statement.
A holiday market planned for Tuesday was also canceled by the Midtown Association, who also cited concerns surrounding protests and safety.
According to the governor's office, the program is unchanged, outside of the event being pre-recorded.
The 92nd annual tree lighting will be hosted by Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. It's a tradition going back to the 1930s.
This year's tree lighting program includes the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Wilton Rancheria and representatives of the Department of Developmental Services' regional centers. Also, the ornaments adorning the tree come from people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Joining the governor and first partner will be Harley Goodpasture, a five-year-old and the first Native American child, to help with the ceremony.
The tree lighting happens Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. It can be viewed HERE on YouTube.
WATCH ALSO:
