Annual tree lighting kicks of holiday season in Wartrace

Wartrace residents will welcome the arrival of the Christmas season with the 20th annual lighting celebration on Friday, December 2.
Bring your family and friends to enjoy this local holiday tradition and participate in the official countdown with Mayor Thomas Hurt and members of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen to light up the town at 6:00 p.m.
“We celebrate the spirit of the holiday season with Christmas caroling by candlelight, performances by some of our town’s wonderful musicians, food, and a merry good time for everyone!” said Mayor Hurt.
Mayor Hurt has invited three young guests to officially turn on the lights, “Santa Claus told me that these very special children would be terrific helpers here in Wartrace.” Following the lighting ceremony, officials will welcome guests to the Fire Hall on Main Street for a small reception.
The splendor of this small town holiday celebration will be on full display that evening as the Wartrace Chamber of Commerce announces its winners of a Christmas decorating contest. Homes will be judged on December 1st with winners announced during the town event, according to the Chamber of Commerce. Judges are looking for “originality in displaying the Christmas spirit” and are awarding cash prizes of $100, $50, and $25.
The day after the town welcomes the holiday season, a Christmas Craft Show will be hosted at the Witten House, 4512 Hwy. 64 E. in Wartrace. The event is Saturday, December 3 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
In addition, a Christmas music program will be held at the Bethsalem Community Chapel at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 11. The free program will feature noted area musicians including pianist Kevin Syler, virtuoso guitarist Don Jones, and singer-songwriters Everett Brown and Gary Pailer. Refreshments will be served following the program where donations will be accepted for maintenance of the historic chapel which is available for community events. Bethsalem Community Chapel is located at 205 Knob Creek Road in Wartrace.