town square tree lighting

Every year, on the first Friday in December, our small community gathers in the town square for the lighting of the Christmas tree. The high school band plays Christmas carols on a makeshift stage, the local weekly hands out steaming cups of hot chocolate and the small town shops that line our little downtown stay open late with live music and special treats. Friends gather on the lawn in the town square and children run circles around the tree. It's a magical, much anticipated event and one that culminates with Santa rising high on the fire truck to light the tree. With his wand ready, we count down: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6... then a sprinkle of glitter and the tree is lit.

Afterwards, together with friends, we parade the eight or so blocks back to our home, the children singing Christmas carols and skipping with arms linked, babies bouncing on mothers' backs. Once home hot cocoa and spiced wine is poured and we gather with our neighbors and friends to kick off the holiday season. Snacks are shared and new friends are made. Before bundling up sleepy toddlers and heading home, we gather around our piano where Mira and a good friend play familiar carols. Singing together we feel happy and blessed. The Christmas season has begun.