Rutherford County Gets Ready to Usher in the Christmas Season
Rutherford County will usher in the season with the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony organized by Main Street Murfreesboro on Friday, December 5, presented by Middle Tennessee Electric.
For the last twenty years a live tree was utilized but this year there is a brand new addition with the installation of a Giant Everest that is 30 feet tall, weighs 3,000 pounds with 2,500 lights.
Some local media outlets have incorrectly reported the county paid a purchase price of six figures for the artificial tree. Rutherford County Facility Management Director Adam Dodd is sure to be on Santa’s nice list for the economical deal he secured for the county. Dodd purchased the tree out of season, took advantage of a 20% discount, and locked in 2024 pricing for a cost of $25,000. The tree has UV protection and a five year warranty and has a life expectancy of ten years. Dodd’s team turned into elves led by Senior Project Manager Barry Ray, along with Grant Faulk, Terry Price, and Travis Spink and assembled the new tree in record time, which was a fraction of the man-hours required last year. The historic courthouse grounds have been transformed into a scene that would fit perfectly on a Christmas card or in a movie. Another new addition is the replica of Santa and two reindeer on the roof.
This is Mayor Joe Carr’s favorite event.
“It’s always nice to kick off the holiday season with the tree lighting ceremony,” Carr said. “For me it’s a chance to spread Christmas cheer and holiday spirit celebrating the birth of Jesus and the joy of the season.”
Mainstreet Murfreesboro Executive Director Sarah Callender reflected on how the event has grown over the years.
"Celebrate Christmas Downtown has grown over the last 25 years, thanks to the many partners helping to expand the Rutherford County tree lighting event for the community,” Callender said. “What started as a simple tree lighting at the courthouse in the 90s has become a three-hour production with carriage rides, performers around the square, free activities for families, and the everlasting tradition of Santa coming to light the tree and visit the children in Rutherford County before he heads back to the North Pole!"
Festivities begin at 6 PM with food trucks and carriage rides. There will be stage performances including live music, dance routines and acting along with free photos with Santa. Make this event your family’s holiday tradition if you haven’t already.
The Historic County Court House will close at 3:00 PM on Friday. The inner and outer circle public square parking will be closed as well. Road closures will start around 4:00 PM. Parking is available at the Murfreesboro Civic Plaza and the County Judicial parking garages.
More information about the festivities can be found at https://www.mainstreetmurfreesboro.org/celebrate-christmas-downtown/.