BY SARAH STEPHENS – ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
PHOTOS BY SARAH STEPHENS, AMANDA PEVEY AND READER SUBMISSIONS
With a creatively decorated backdrop at Village Green Tuesday, the large crowd cheered as the official city Christmas tree was lit, and snow began to fall.
With a Candyland theme, visitors could walk along the candy path, with many stopping for photos along the way.
A tremendous amount of work went into the decorations this year, thanks to the hard work of the Spirit of Christmas Committee, Millbrook Parks and Recreation Department, city staff, and Millbrook’s Special Events Director Danae Morgan for her amazing creativity.
Beginning early in the evening, three Food Trucks were available for the hungry crowd. They included Front Porch Grill, Zeke’s BBQ and Norris Concessions-Kendall’s Kitchen.
Kingdom Dough provided FREE hot chocolate all evening with plenty of marshmallows, sprinkles and more. With very cool temperatures, it was a well-received respite for cold hands.
Pastor DJ Stinnard with The Gathering Place told the story of the birth of Jesus, followed by beautiful carols sung by a praise band. The church also provided the Live Nativity.
Children could have their free photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus, courtesy of Valley Bank and Barry Chrietzberg Photography
Emcee for the evening was Bill Roberts who reminded everyone the Christmas Parade and festival has been postponed to Dec. 9, due to inclement weather forecast for this Saturday.
Just prior to the tree lighting, Mayor Al Kelley welcomed everyone to the event, saying it is a perfect representation of the community. He thanked everyone who played a part in bringing the event together beautifully. He also introduced the city council members, and then began the countdown to the Lighting and Snow Fall to wild cheers.
Thank you to the Millbrook Police Department who monitored traffic to allow visitors to make it across walkways safely.
On Dec. 9, the park will open at 9 a.m. with vendors for shopping and food trucks available. There will be plenty of entertainment throughout the day on stage from local performers as well.
At 2 p.m. the parade will roll from Smokehouse Barbecue on Main Street heading north to the AirNow Parking lot. The winners of the float contests will be announced that day.
We will have updates on the parade and festival over the next week, so stay tuned for more information.
Thank you to the City of Millbrook for another beautiful welcome to the holiest of seasons.
The beautifully lit and decorated park will be shining brightly now through the first of the year. Make sure to plan a family outing and enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas.
