EL Pasoans excited to see Christmas lights at San Jacinto Plaza

The ladders went up early Thursday and Christmas decorations peeked out the back of a truck at San Jacinto Plaza.

As night fell, El Paso’s Christmas tradition at San Jacinto Plaza started coming to life. ABC-7 cameras captured crews decorating the tree late into the evening.

In years past, the city moved the lights display to Cleveland Square and some had their opinions

“I didn’t like how you couldn’t go inside,” Jaqueline Melendez said.

Melendez was out for a walk at the plaza with her friends, who also agreed Cleveland Square wasn’t the best spot.

“I didn’t like how it was so secluded, how it took away from the experience of walking through this wonderland,” Alexis Ayala said.

Ayala said he didn’t like the crowding at the display at Cleveland Square.

“You’re stuck at the fence and you’re trying to peek in,” Ayala said.

Both Melendez and Ayala say they are ready to see this years display at the plaza.

“I’m excited. I’m looking forward to it. Seeing this big tree it makes me want Christmas to come already,” Melendez said.

Nearby businesses say they welcome the display.

“International” manager Alejandro Borunda said the display can boost his business.

“From what it’s looking like, it’ll be a good feature for every year,” Borunda told ABC-7.

Ayala hopes the change will be another great attraction for the city.

“Maybe this time it will be different. I think it will add a new scene to the El Paso area,” Ayala said.

Crews told ABC-7 they’ve installed 450 lights on the main tree and the decorations are expected to be added Friday, weather permitting.