KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Kalamazoo hosted its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday evening in Bronson Park.
Festivities are planned from 5–7 p.m. and the lighting of the park happened at about 6 p.m.
Activities include music and dance performances, crafts provided by the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm, ice sculpting by Ice Guru, hot chocolate provided by Kzoo Parks and First Presbyterian Church and visits with Santa.
Food and refreshments were available for purchase from food trucks lined up along the park on South Street, including Teresa’s Kitchen, Coffee Rescue, Weller Barbecue and Incredible Kettle.
Ada LeeAnn, an indie-pop singer, kicked off performances from 5–5:10 p.m., followed by Blendings Vocal Ensemble from 5:15–5:40 p.m.
The mayor, city commissioners, city manager and Santa then took the stage to read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and flip the switch to light up Bronson Park, officially marking the start of the holiday season.
After the park was lit, Trinity Prep Center dance group performed from 6:10–6:25 p.m., followed by Small Sounds with pop, rock and electronic music for kids from 6:30–6:45 p.m.
DJ Chuck will close out the show from 6:45–7 p.m.
The event is free and open to all community members.
Attendees were expected to follow guidelines from the CDC and local health officials to protect themselves and the community from COVID-19.
