VALDOSTA — The City of Valdosta, Valdosta Main Street and Lowndes County invite the community to celebrate the holiday season with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 6. The lighting will take place at the Unity Park Amphitheater, located at 301 E. Central Ave., starting at 6 p.m.

This family-friendly, free event brings together residents and visitors for an evening of holiday magic, as Valdosta and Lowndes County join hands to illuminate the community’s Christmas tree and ring in the season, the organizers said in a press release late last week. Attendees can warm up with complimentary hot cocoa provided by Visit Valdosta, while adults can enjoy a festive eggnog for a small cost from Downtown Social. Snow flurries and holiday trinkets for the children will set the scene as the community gathers to celebrate.

Mayor Scott James Matheson shared his excitement for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, emphasizing the event as a cherished community tradition that brings families together from across Valdosta and Lowndes County. “This celebration is a wonderful way for us to come together, share in the holiday spirit, and make lasting memories,” he said. “Seeing children light up as they meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes reminds us all of the joy and magic this season brings.”

Highlights of the evening include a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Lowndes County Chairman Bill Slaughter, followed by a live interview between Santa Claus and City of Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson, capturing the joy and spirit of the season.

Entertainment will be provided by the talented Valdosta High School Singers, led by Aston Bryant, who will share holiday music to inspire and uplift.

“The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cornerstone of our downtown festivities,” said Valdosta Main Street Manager Kym Hughes. “It’s a time when our community gathers to celebrate the season, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that make Valdosta such a special place.”

“The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony serves as a great opportunity to bring the community together in the heart of Lowndes County and celebrate the holiday season. We are excited to continue this joint community Christmas ceremony with the City of Valdosta and kick off the Christmas season,” said Bill Slaughter, chairman of the Lowndes County Board of Commission.

For additional information, please contact the City of Valdosta’s Public Information Office at 229-259-3548 or Lowndes County’s Public Information Department at 229-671-2491.