The warmth of community spirit prevailed as Cookeville residents gathered at Dogwood Park last Sunday night for the annual Community Tree Lighting Ceremony. The event, hosted by the City of Cookeville Leisure Services Department, became a canvas of music, readings, and classic holiday revelry, symbolizing the start of the holiday season in the heart of the community.
Chad McDonald, the director of Leisure Services and Public Facilities, kicked off the night with a welcome message to the attendees, and Tennessee Tech University senior vocal major, Faith Manganaro, set the tone with a rendition of the national anthem. McDonald expressed his enthusiasm, telling Cookeville's official website, "This event creates an opportunity for residents to gather and enjoy the start of the season.” Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Cookeville Fire Department was present, proudly displaying the American flag atop their tower truck, while the Cookeville Police Department ensured traffic and safety were managed with precision.
Music flowed throughout the evening, with vocalist Melissa Ellis serenading the crowd with holiday classics such as "The Christmas Waltz" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." Ellis also added a local touch with "Christmas in New Orleans." In a sequence of heartfelt seasonal remarks, Mayor Laurin Wheaton paved the way for an enchanting performance by combined elementary school choirs, celebrating the unity and talents of Cookeville's youngest vocalists.
"A Visit from St. Nicholas" was brought to life through a community reading featuring local luminaries including Kathryn Wisinger from the Putnam County Library, Bob Luna, the voice of the TTU Band, and bookstore owner Lisa Uhrik. The night progressed with recognitions, such as the Merry and Bright Challenge, to which Recreation Programmer Sally Herren applauded residents for their festive displays. A trio of local pastors, Steve Tiebout, Mark Davis, and Chip Hunter delivered a Nativity Story, resonating with the crowd before a collective rendition of "Away in a Manger" filled the air.
The ceremony reached its zenith with Santa and Mrs. Claus's anticipated arrival and the ceremonial lighting of the community Christmas tree, a moment marked by a collective countdown led by Mayor Wheaton’s children. The grand finale harmonized the youthful voices of the elementary choirs with Melissa Ellis, culminating in a jubilant "Joy to the World." The tree, now aglow, promises to light up each evening through January 6, delighting onlookers with an hourly light show from 5 to 9 p.m.
