Malia Riggs
Elmore Autauga News
Magic was in the air Thursday evening as the annual Prattville Tree Lighting created a winter wonderland straight out of a storybook of the North Pole.
This year’s tree is brand new, along with other new additions to this year’s display, Parks and Recreation Director Kellie Carter said.
“I remember years ago having to go on City property and cut down a real tree and decorate it. We have come a long way from then. This new tree is from Christmas Palace and is over 30 feet tall and pre-lit. The last tree was pre-lit but the lights didn’t work so we had to hand string them and it took a long time,” Carter said.
Carter stated she remembers when she started in 2008, and the Prattville Christmas Tree was placed in front of City Hall instead of Spillway Park. However, the brand-new tree is not the only new thing this year. A carousel will also be standing proudly at Spillway Park to encapsulate the holiday magic.
With numerous new additions there are still the old traditions in place. The ice-skating rink, food trucks, snow falling and lights all around kept the holiday tree lighting tradition alive.
Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie along with the Prattville City Council members pulled the lever to light Prattville’s Christmas tree to officially signify the holiday season has begun in Prattville.
“I LOVE Christmas, like more than most people probably. I get nicknamed Mother Christmas around town, and I am totally ok with that. It is such an honor to be able to help bring this magic to life. My wish is that people truly knew how much time and effort goes into making sure every single detail is just perfect. We have the best team, and our Urban Management Division is a huge partner. We want to be a must-see spot for people and to always be a Christmas tradition for families,” Carter said.
Santa and Mrs. Claus also made an appearance from the North Pole after the tree was lit and the snow was falling as the stars came out, just to fall on downtown Prattville.
Prattville’s Annual Christmas Parade took place, December 6 at 7 p.m. in historic downtown Prattville.
