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76th Annual State Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Ornaments made by individuals with
developmental disabilities

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and First Lady Maria Shriver kicked-off the holiday season with the 76th annual State Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the West Steps of the State Capitol on Tuesday, December 4, 2007.

This was the 25th year that a child with a developmental disability has participated in the ceremony

During the ceremony, eight year-old Itzamaya Nuñez, who has Down Syndrome, presented the governor with one of nearly 1,500 ornaments handcrafted by individuals with developmental disabilities statewide. Itzamaya receives services coordinated by the San Andreas Regional Center and funded by the state Department of Developmental Services. In front of more than 2,000 spectators and broadcast TV cameras, Itzamaya pressed the switch to light up the 6,500 lights that decorate the tree.

The event was hosted by television personality Leeza Gibbons, and featured musical performances by Trisha Yearwood and Katharine McPhee.

• Governor's Video and Photos
• Itzamaya's Biography (PDF)
• Hand-Crafted Ornaments
• Holiday Music Program (PDF)
• 2006 Tree Lighting Ceremony