Kicking off the Christmas season in London, the community came together Dec. 3 at Town Center Park for the sixth annual tree lighting.
Festivities began at 5 p.m. with food trucks including Moody Cows, Beverly Ann’s, Neon Squeeze, and The Little Cupcake serving a variety of delicious foods to attendees. Elementary and middle school choirs then performed, leading up to a final performance by country up-and-comer Phoebe White around 6:30 p.m.
Shortly before 7 p.m. rolled around, it was time for the main event. Though many would say that the event is magical each year, an exciting announcement made by London Mayor Randall Weddle certainly sets this year’s tree lighting apart.
Chris Robinson, director of London Tourism and Parks, addressed attendees first, welcoming them and thanking those involved in making the annual event possible before inviting Mayor Weddle to take the stage.
At that time, Weddle made the announcement of a new proclamation — naming London the “Christmas Capital of the Commonwealth.”
“The City of London, Kentucky, has been long-known for its welcoming spirit, its commitment to preserving traditions, and its ability to create festive experiences that bring holiday cheer to all who visit,” he read from the proclamation. He went on to note a few of the many Christmas events which the city hosts, such as the Randy Smith Christmas Parade and Lights Over London.
Mayor Weddle continued, “The City of London embraces the true meaning of holiday season by engaging in charitable efforts and providing to those in need, ensuring that warmth and generosity of Christmas are felt by all.”
“I, Randall Weddle – the mayor of the City of London – do hereby proclaim the City of London to be the ‘Christmas Capital of the Commonwealth’ and encourage all residents and visitors to embrace the spirit of Christmas, celebrating together,” he said in closing. “Now, who’s ready to light this tree?”
Countless members of the community then gathered around the tree and began to excitedly count down, with the tree displaying the decreasing numbers as they did so. The first song to play following the countdown was “A Holly Jolly Christmas.”
Those who missed the tree lighting can still enjoy its several displays, as the tree will put on a light show every 30 minutes starting at 6 p.m. each day leading up to the New Year.
With the tree aglow and London’s new title, the city has officially welcomed a season of holiday magic and community spirit.