A holiday tradition takes an unexpected turn as dogs dash off with the Pirate Angel topper during the Sanctuary Bay tree lighting. —Staff photo

Dec. 15, 2025 — Sanctuary Bay

Holiday Market Opens with Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Fallen Pirate Angel Briefly Delays Proceedings

By staff writer, The Noble County Recorder

The Sanctuary Bay Holiday Market opened Saturday evening with the town’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, drawing residents to the park for carols, cocoa, and the traditional countdown marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Mayor Loulou Tomlin addressed the crowd shortly before dusk, thanking volunteers, local business sponsors, and organizers for their work preparing the market. She offered particular recognition to Holly Daye and the staff of CoaStyle Event Decorating for coordinating this year’s festivities.

As the mayor concluded her remarks, the lights dimmed in preparation for the ceremonial drumroll.

Moments later, a stiff gust off the river swept through the square.

Witnesses reported that the traditional Pirate Angel tree topper—a long-standing symbol honoring Sanctuary Bay’s founding as a haven for pirates—wobbled, tilted, and then dislodged from the top of the tree, tumbling to the ground below.

Before volunteers could react, a blur of black fur streaked across the lawn, the Pirate Angel clutched triumphantly in its jaws.

The culprit was quickly identified as Alfie, a French bulldog owned by Stanley “Thig” Thigpin of Bark and Buff Dog Spa. Close behind came The Colonel, the English bulldog belonging to Holly Daye, in enthusiastic pursuit.

Thigpin and Daye sprinted across the lawn as the dogs circled the tree, drawing gasps, laughter, and applause from the crowd. The band, momentarily stunned, recovered and launched into “Joy to the World” as the tree was lit and the chase concluded with the Pirate Angel recovered intact.

Volunteers confirmed that the tree itself remained stable and undamaged.

“No injuries were reported,” officials later stated. “The Pirate Angel will be re-secured prior to the next scheduled event.”

Festivities continued as planned, with residents browsing vendor stalls, enjoying seasonal treats, and gathering beneath the illuminated tree as opening night concluded.

Holiday Market Schedule: Week of December 15

Sunday, Dec. 15
• Tree Lighting Ceremony (completed)
• Opening Night Market Hours

Monday, Dec. 16
• Children’s Craft Hour
• Caroling on Bay Street

Tuesday, Dec. 17
• Cookie Exchange & Recipe Swap
• Local Choir Performances

Wednesday, Dec. 18
• Annual Wreath Decorating Contest
• Judging and Award Presentation

Thursday, Dec. 19
• Holiday Pet Parade
• Photos with Santa (Gazebo)

Friday, Dec. 20
• Closing Night Market
• Community Sing-Along

Community Note

Organizers reminded attendees that pets must remain leashed during market events. Additional volunteers will be stationed near the tree throughout the week.