At a glance
— Jacksonville’s annual Christmas tree lighting moved indoors to The Roost due to rainy weather but drew a cheerful crowd.
— Mayor Mark Jones celebrated his first month in office with warm reflections on community and holiday tradition.
— Local choirs, Santa Claus and hot chocolate helped create a cozy, festive atmosphere for families and friends.
JACKSONVILLE — Rain dampened the sidewalks but not the spirit of Jacksonville’s annual Christmas tree lighting, which unfolded Monday evening on the public square with music, cocoa and a crowd full of holiday cheer.
The city’s decision to relocate the event indoors to The Roost — a newly renovated venue on the square — turned out to be a welcome change. Families filled the space in festive sweaters and Santa hats, sipping hot chocolate provided by Hillcrest Baptist Church and enjoying performances by the Kitty Stone Elementary Singers and the Jacksonville High School Choir.
Mayor Mark Jones, who wraps up his first month in office this week, welcomed attendees with gratitude and good humor.
“For those of you that did not know, I’m Mayor Mark Jones, just completed my first month on the job, and I’m really enjoying it — especially this time of year,” Jones said during opening remarks. “Few people I’d like to thank and introduce prior to getting started, number one, our rec department — Janice Burns and her staff — for getting this organized.”
Jones also thanked developer Devin Sonderman for opening The Roost to the public, calling the venue a “great addition to the square and the community.”
The change in location didn’t diminish the turnout. In fact, Jones said the cozy indoor setting may have enhanced the experience.
“What really amazed me the most was the crowd that we had,” Jones said in an interview. “We haven’t had a formal sit-down review yet, but the consensus is that it might be a good thing to do from now on — have the preliminary inside and then go outside and light [the tree].”
Following the music and speeches, attendees made their way to the square for the traditional countdown.
“We counted it down and it was dark, and we hit zero, and the whole square lit up,” he said.
Jones, formerly president of the City Council, said stepping into the mayor’s role has been a “busy pleasure.”
“One month in,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the next 47.”
University President Dr. Don Killingsworth Jr. also addressed the crowd, wishing everyone a merry Christmas and encouraging support for Jacksonville State University’s upcoming championship game and campus lighting.
Santa Claus — played by Gary Humphreys — was on hand for photos and hugs, including a surprise kiss on the cheek from young Annaleigh Lewis that drew smiles from the crowd.
Jones said the event was a reflection of the city’s high spirits and strong sense of community.
“It was just a great atmosphere,” he said. “We showcased talent from our school system, and it was a great event.”