The hotel space of the Hilton Bellevue carries with it a 28-year life span and a long history of serving the Bellevue community. Originally a Red Lion and then a Doubletree Hotel, the hotel underwent an $8 million renovation in 2006 and took on the Hilton brand.

The hotel’s 26,000-square-feet of banquet and meeting space made it the largest conference hotel and facility in Bellevue up until a couple of months ago when the opening of the new Hyatt Regency’s expansion claimed the title.

Still, the Hilton has continued to hold its own during the downturn of the economy and rise of local competition.

“We have remained competitive despite the economy,” explained Bob Taylor, the Director of Catering for the Hilton Bellevue. “We have a strong customer base that has remained loyal as we re-introduce ourselves to the community.”

Although the Hilton Bellevue is located outside of the downtown core, the hotel has become known as a staple for the holiday season and community celebrations. Decorations, including a dozen Christmas trees, some towering as tall as 14 feet, will be installed in coming weeks. Professional decorators and staff volunteers will transform the hotel’s public spaces to capture the holiday spirit and Stay and Play hotel packages will be available for New Year’s Eve including transportation to and from the hotel to Snoqualmie Casino.

“Our hotel may not be located in the heart of Downtown Bellevue, but we offer a number of appealing features from the natural setting and wildlife surrounding the hotel to the free parking and popular Basil restaurant,” Taylor said.

To bring the magic of the holidays to the community, the Hilton Bellevue has invited three, local middle school choirs to perform at the hotel during the month of December. Tyee Middle School, Rosa Parks Puma Choir, and Tillicum Middle School Choir will all perform holiday recitals overlooking the hotel’s decorated lobby space on the third floor near the Tullys. The recitals are open to the public and a buffet lunch will be provided. Reservations are preferred to secure a seat.

Friday, Dec. 4: Tyee Middle School Choir, 11:45 a.m., to 12:20 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 11: Rosa Parks Puma Choir, 11:45 a.m., to 12:20 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 18: Tillicum Middle School Choir, 11:45 a.m., to 12:20 p.m.

To reserve a spot for the lunch buffet following the recitals, call 425-450-4111. Hilton Bellevue is located at 300 112th Avenue Southeast. For more information, visit www.bellevuehilton.com.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425-453-4602.