FROM ANN HARPER
CITY OF MILLBROOK
Top Photo: A shot of a previous tree lighting. But, once again the Snow will fall at the upcoming event Thursday at Village Green Park. (EAN file photo)
It’s beginning to look a lot like a Christmas in the City of Millbrook. The Spirit of Christmas Committee is wasting no time moving forward with this year’s theme “Millbrook Christmas Candyland” based on the beginner’s board game “Candy Land.” Look for Village Green Park, a favorite gathering place of the community, and Christmas parade floats to reflect the popular board game’s color schemes and décor.
On Thursday, November 30, 2023, the city will kick off the Christmas season with the annual community Tree Lighting at the Village Green Park from 5:00-7:00 pm. The event will be emceed by Bill Roberts with prayer offered by Pastor DJ Stinard of The Gathering Place.
** 5:00-7:00 pm: Food Trucks on-site. Enjoy the delicious fare provided by Front Porch Grill, Zeke’s BBQ and Norris Concessions-Kendall’s Kitchen.
** 5:30-6:30 pm: Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Village Green stage. Sponsored by Valley Bank, Barry Chrietzberg Photography will be on hand to take photos of children with Santa free of charge.
** 6:00 pm: Tree Lighting Ceremony of which there is a 100% chance of snow!
Other activities include: a live nativity with the story of the birth of Jesus, caroling sing-along, and a free hot chocolate bar with all the fixings.
On Saturday, December 2, 2023, the City will host the community’s annual Christmas Festival at the Village Green Park from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Over 75 vendors will be on the grounds to help you with your Christmas shopping. Live entertainment includes Lisa’s Dance Dimensions, Airport Road Intermediate School Choir, Airport Road Intermediate School Dance Team, and Chung’s Taekwondo. Another opportunity to have photos taken with Santa will be provided on stage from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.
The parade rolls out at 2:00 pm with Jamie Brown, MAX Credit Union, serving as emcee. This year’s Grand Marshals are the individuals served by The Azalea Training Center, a non-profit organization that provides personalized training, education, and resources to the special needs community in order to enhance their independence.
Danae Morgan, the City’s Cultural Arts and Special Events Director is spearheading the events and says “I am thrilled to be leading this year’s Christmas festivities, but particularly pleased that the Azalea Training Center will be playing a big part in the parade serving as Grand Marshals and ambassadors of Millbrook’s special needs community. I had the privilege of meeting and getting to know these exceptional individuals through classes offered at The Art Mill. I have a special place in my heart for them. I am honored to help celebrate them.”
The Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce will add to the holiday festivities by hosting a city-wide contest for best decorated business. The contest may be entered by registering at www.millbrookchamber.org
Additionally, the Chamber has commissioned artist Carol Barksdale to design this year’s collectible Christmas ornament which will be available soon at both The Chamber offices and The Art Mill.
