A new, spectacular 49 ~ The City of Springfield is set to light up the holiday season with a spectacular 49-foot tree in Park Central Square on November 18th. The five-story tree was made possible in part thanks to a generous donation from the Hatch Foundation.

The event, produced by the City's Department of Public Information & Civic Engagement, in partnership with City Utilities, KY3 and the Downtown Community Improvement District, will feature a diverse lineup of artists performing everything from country to jazz to opera. "We want our entire community to feel welcome at this annual event, which is why we are featuring a wide variety of artists," said Cora Scott, event director and director of Public Information and Civic Engagement for the City of Springfield.

The festivities will begin at 6 p.m., with Mayor Ken McClure reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas on Park Central Square. The Mayor's Commission on Children will provide free copies of the book while supplies last. Attendees can also take "Selfies with Santa" and enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides courtesy of the Downtown Community Improvement District, free hot chocolate, cookies and candy canes courtesy of the City, as well as free rides on the SGF Holiday Express Train circling Park Central Square throughout the evening.

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At 7 p.m., viewers can tune into Me TV for a pre-recorded holiday television special featuring talented local performers. At 7:45 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will join Mayor Ken McClure, KY's Paul Adler and Maria Neider and Cora Scott for the countdown and lighting of the official Mayor's Christmas tree just before 8 p.m..

In addition to these events taking place on November 18th, visitors can also visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa Land in Park Central Square from 6-8 p.m., November 24th through December 23rd (excluding Thanksgiving Day). Free ice skating is also available at Jordan Valley Ice Park from 7-8:30 p.m., November 23rd (Thanksgiving Day), December 9th, 23rd and 25th (Christmas Day). Skate rental is $3 during these sessions.

For more information about this event or where to park visit sgffestivaloflights.com or contact Cora Scott at [email protected]

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