Across the United States, celebrations for the 2023 holiday season are kicking off with vibrant festivities, community gatherings, and cherished traditions. From tree lightings to theatrical performances, cities and towns are embracing the spirit of the season with joy and creativity.
One highlight this week is Concord, New Hampshire's annual Christmas tree lighting event, which is set to take place on Friday, December 1st. This year marks the 39th anniversary of the tradition and promises to be packed with entertainment and festivities. The event runs from 4 to 7 p.m. at the city plaza, featuring free hot chocolate and cider, wagon rides, and even balloon animals for the kids. A special attraction is the magic show slated for 4 to 5 p.m., where children's awe will blend seamlessly with the excitement of the season.
Santa Claus is making his anticipated appearance at 6:30 p.m., just before the ceremonial tree lighting at 6:45 p.m. A delightful fireworks show will follow, lighting up the sky around 7 p.m., with the best viewing spots suggested near the Legislative Parking Garage or King’s Plaza. Local businesses and community sponsors, including Kiwanis and various local banks, have joined forces to make this event possible, ensuring donations are welcomed for future celebrations.
Meanwhile, more festive events are heating up as well, such as the Holiday Reflections at Union Station in Kansas City, which opened its doors on November 22nd and will run until January 1st, 2025. Aimed at capturing the enchantment of the season, this event is packed with dazzling light displays and interactive experiences. Featuring everything from model train displays to guest appearances by seasonal characters, Union Station invites families to bask in the holiday spirit. General admission varies from $8 to $10, and the event emphasizes safety by employing only authorized staff members to wear costumes.
For those who enjoy holiday-themed entertainment from the comfort of plush theater seats, The Waldo Theatre is bringing back its much-loved tradition of featuring holiday films with community engagement. On November 29th, families can join the Holiday Sing-a-Long, featuring the classic movie White Christmas. Audiences will sing along to the beloved Irving Berlin score, and to make things lively, there will be costume contests for both kids and adults, alongside fun raffle prizes from local businesses. Tickets are available now, fostering excitement for this festive gathering.
Traditionally, the holiday season also brings people together through markets and fairs, and this year continues the practice. A variety of Christmas tree sales are scheduled to pop up across towns. The West Bay Rotary Annual Christmas Tree Sale is one such event, launching from November 29th through mid-December, offering community members the chance to pick out fresh trees to take home.
Not to be overlooked, the trend of personalized holiday décor is very much alive, as seen from celebrity inspirations. Jennifer Aniston's modern minimalist Christmas tree design has sparked interest among fans, showcasing how the holidays can be personalized and fun. Aniston chose unique ornaments, including playful items from her haircare line, showcasing creativity over conventional decorations. This year, many are expected to follow suit, adding their twist to Christmas decor.
This season serves as more than just festivities; it also emphasizes collective community efforts and traditions steeped in joy and love. With events across the country promoting togetherness, celebration, and creative expression, there is no shortage of opportunities to make lasting memories. Whether it's lighting trees, attending holiday concerts, or simply gathering with loved ones to celebrate, communities are working hard to infuse the holiday season with magic and wonder. Families are invited to embrace the joy this holiday season brings, participating fully and creating cherished moments with friends and neighbors all around.
