CLINTON - A cold and crisp Thursday night didn’t stop the holiday spirit from shining bright in Downtown Clinton, where a large crowd gathered for the city’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Families bundled in coats and scarves filled the square, eagerly awaiting the start of Clinton’s holiday season.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Jim Spry, Director of Main Street Clinton, who thanked the community for showing up in such strong numbers. Spry also took a moment to recognize Stewart and Heather Owens of The Vestibule for their generous donation of hot chocolate—a warm treat especially appreciated on the chilly night.
Festivities continued with holiday carols performed by the first graders of Eastside Elementary School, whose cheerful voices brought smiles to the crowd and set a festive tone for the event.
Following the performance, Mayor Randy Randall stepped forward to lead the crowd in the highly anticipated countdown. As the final numbers rang out, the towering downtown tree burst to life in a glow of sparkling lights. Applause and cheers swept across the square as Mayor Randall wished everyone a heartfelt “Merry Christmas!”
But the magic wasn’t over just yet.
Moments after the tree lit up, the sound of distant sirens began to echo through downtown. As they grew louder, anticipation spread through the crowd. Children—and plenty of adults—watched excitedly as a Clinton Fire Department truck arrived, revealing a very special guest dressed head-to-toe in red. Santa Claus stepped out to greet the delighted audience, bringing even more cheer to the night.
The surprise visit capped off a joyful evening and marked a festive, heartwarming start to the holiday season in Clinton.
