The annual holiday tree lighting festivities always draw an energetic and large crowd to downtown Plymouth. Besides the lighting itself, there will be a lot going on, including live music, arts and crafts, hay rides, face painting, the popular Winter Lights 5k road race, and – naturally – an appearance by Santa Claus.
With Main Street closed to vehicles and most stores open, it’s also an ideal time to do some Christmas shopping that doesn’t involve boxes plastered with the Amazon logo.
The weather forecast as of now is sketchy – it calls for mild temperatures but a good chance of rain – but even in a worst-case scenario, you can always duck inside a restaurant or bar (sans the little ones) for a hot drink or cold brew.
The event starts at 4:30 p.m. and goes until 8:30, with the road race set to step off at 6:15. (Registration is still open online.)
The tree lighting is one of those rare events that exudes a true sense of community in a world dominated by screens and too-busy schedules. It also makes us wonder what downtown might be like if there were more such special occasions throughout the year. More details are here.