Carol-oke Fills Heritage Park With Song

Irving—The city of Irving hosted a Carol-oke event at Heritage Park on Saturday, Dec. 18. In the park’s stage area, a large karaoke machine was available for people to sing popular Christmas carols. Despite the cold temperatures, a number of carolers attended the event.

“Carol-oke is part of our Holidays at Heritage series,” Megan Gordon, special events supervisor for Irving, said. “It’s actually the last event of our series, which started with our parade and tree lighting on Dec. 4. It ends today with Carol-oke.

“We did Brunch-mas last week, so we just wanted to switch it up and utilize the wonderful screen outside. The majority of our larger events were at the beginning of the series.

“I think the people are enjoying it. It’s pretty cold out there, so the crowd isn’t too large. As long as we have the resources to bring these [events] to this area, I think that’s pretty wonderful. To see everyone enjoying what they help bring to the community, is always a great thing.

“Once it gets warm again, we will be bringing another similar series in the spring that will utilize the stage with concerts, movies and comedians. Something every month out here.”

Sophia Ayala attended the karaoke with her family.

“It’s a little chilly, but it’s nice to spend time together,” Ayala said. “The lights and the holiday spirit; I’m very into the holiday spirit.”

Ayala’s favorite Christmas carol is ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.’

“I love singing it, and my kids love to hear it,” Ayala said.

Clark Teemant was at the event with his family.

“I like that it’s open for everyone to come hang out with their families,” Teemant said.“The park is really nice and singing is always nice too. My favorite Christmas carol is actually ‘The First Noel.’”

Mary-Ann Salmon attended with a group.

“We happened to come looking at lights,” Salmon said. “We wanted to see the new finished downtown area, and we happened upon [Carol-oke]. It is fantastic. We’re loving it. I love all the lights. Everyone is free to come up and sing, so it makes it a lot of fun for families.”