MASON CITY — Mason City will officially kick off the holiday season at 5:30 p.m. tonight with free live music, caroling, and the official lighting of the Community Christmas Tree—held this year inside the beautifully decorated Music Man Square as part of the Home for the Holidays celebration.
The event, originally scheduled for Saturday, was postponed to tonight due to the winter storm that moved in over the weekend.
Mayor Bill Schickel said this year’s location is especially meaningful as the neighborhood surrounding Music Man Square experiences a remarkable wave of renewal.
“Just steps away, the Hilton Hotel is rising, the Riverwalk District is taking shape, and Southbridge Mall is awakening with new possibilities,” Schickel said. “It’s the perfect setting to celebrate the spirit of light, community, and renewal that this season brings.”
Prior to the official tree lighting, Betsy Kirby and Allison Day will lead Christmas caroling. Following the lighting guests are also invited to explore the It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas exhibit—featuring more than 50 decorated Christmas trees and holiday displays throughout the square.
A highlight of the evening will be the shared symbolism of the Christmas Tree lighting and the golden glow of Harmony in Light, just steps away on the Riverwalk. Like the tree, the sculpture—created to symbolize the light within each of us—will illuminate the night sky as the tree is lit.
“When we light the tree, its glow will join the shining chorus rising from the Riverwalk,” Schickel said. “Two lights pushing back the winter darkness. Two reminders that renewal is happening both in our city and in the hearts of our people.”
A child from the community will join Mayor Schickel on stage to officially light the tree. The event is organized by Main Street Mason City and Music Man Square. The public is invited to attend the free event and celebrate the beginning of Mason City’s holiday season. Following the tree lighting celebration the Symphony Orchestra of North Iowa presents their First Annual Holiday Concert at 7 p.m.
(TOP PHOTO: Mayor Bill Schickel and his wife, Candi, prepare for the official lighting of the Community Christmas Tree at 5:30 p.m. Monday at Music Man Square in Mason City.)