HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Downtown Huntsville has a new holiday landmark. The Von Braun Center lit a Christmas tree for the first time Friday evening, turning a free family party outside the arena into the opening act of the city’s holiday season.
The new tree stands by the Propst Arena entrance, looking out over Big Spring Park. The free celebration ran from 4 to 6 p.m., and the lights came on at 5 p.m.
Families who came out met Santa and Mrs. Claus, picked up refreshments and stayed for games and other activities for children. It was the first time the downtown arena and convention center has held a tree lighting of its own.
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle spoke to the crowd and told them the evening was only a starting point. He said the city has many more holiday events lined up across Huntsville in the coming weeks, and he encouraged residents to get the season started early.
Ahead of the event, the Von Braun Center’s marketing and public relations director, Samantha Nielsen, invited the community to come downtown for the free festivities and the appearances by holiday favorites. The venue has said residents can follow its website for the rest of its holiday schedule and for events planned beyond the season.
With the tree now lit, visitors walking through Big Spring Park can see it at the arena entrance through the holidays. Anyone headed into the arena for a show or an event this season will pass right by it, and the park paths give walkers a clear view of the lights after dark.
Organizers pitched the night as a gift to the community, with no tickets needed and the treats and visits with Santa offered at no cost to families.
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