By Sarah Stephens Elmore Autauga News
Photos by Amanda Pevey, Sarah Stephens
Well before the countdown began to light the official City of Millbrook Tree, a great crowd filled Village Green Park. They snacked on goodies, drank hot chocolate, sang Christmas Carols, walked around to see the lights and enjoyed a traditional, hometown celebration.
The park has been transformed into a Winter Wonderland, thanks to the talents of the Millbrook Parks and Recreation Department and the Cultural Arts and Special Events Department.
If you were there and left early, you may have missed the beautiful lights synchronized to music. It will be on display nightly until the first of the year.
As the time grew near to flip the giant switch to light the tree, Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley welcomed officials up on stage. He thanked everyone that worked tirelessly on this year’s events, including the tree lighting, the park decorating, the lights throughout town, and the parade which will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. He said it takes everyone that works for the city to pull off the event successfully each year.
Serving as the emcee of the tree lighting ceremony was WAKA’s meteorologist Shane Butler. Father Mike Harbor, with Saint Michael’s and All Angels Episcopal Church led a prayer, and told the story of Jesus’ birth in a manger and the living nativity which was on display.
The crowd joined in with Christmas Caroling with help from Saint Michael’s and All Angels Episcopal Church. Candle luminaries were passed out to families during caroling.
Free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus were on the front stage. Free balloon art was given out courtesy of Jack Frost, all known as the Balloon Artist near the gazebo. Food trucks on site included Jennifer’s, Pops N Sons, Domino’s Pizza, Fountain City Food Truck, Made by Molly’s cookies, and Norris Concessions.
The free hot chocolate bar was courtesy of the City of Millbrook and Kingdom Dough.
Mayor Kelley recognized the Grand Marshals for the parade which will include WWII and Korean War veterans.
To cap off the evening, the crowd counted down from 10, and suddenly the park was beautifully lit, and the snow was falling!
Remember that the Spirit of Christmas Festival will begin Saturday at 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Parade begins at 2 p.m. and will leave from Mill Creek Park, heading north up Main Street passing Village Green Park.
The EAN staff would like to wish everyone a very, merry Christmas this season.
