Springfield Standard

Springfield, MO — The City of Springfield and the Downtown Community Improvement District are set to host the annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting Holiday Show this Saturday, November 23, at Park Central Square. This event marks the official start of the holiday season in Springfield.

The celebration will commence with a preview performance by the cast of Springfield Little Theater's A Christmas Carol musical at 5:45 p.m., followed by Mayor Ken McClure reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. Complimentary books will be distributed thanks to the Mayor’s Commission on Children. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are scheduled to arrive on the SGF Holiday Express shortly after 6 p.m.

Mayor McClure expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This event is one of my favorite ways to bring the community together. It’s a time to reflect on what makes Springfield special and to celebrate the joy and hope of the holiday season.”

From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., attendees can visit Santa in his "tree" house and enjoy live performances from local artists, school choirs, and special guests. The evening will culminate with Mayor McClure leading a countdown to illuminate a towering holiday tree just before 8 p.m., accompanied by a new drone show provided by Visit Springfield Mo.

Afterward, families can partake in various activities including free downtown horse and carriage rides courtesy of Downtown CID, rides aboard the SGF Holiday Express around Park Central Square, free cookies and hot cocoa while supplies last, Santa's Mailbox provided by U.S. Post Office where children can send letters to Santa who will reply back, free ice skating at Brightspeed Ice Park sponsored by Brightspeed Fiber Internet, and exploring Route 66 Merry Market at Park Central West.

The Mayor’s Tree Lighting Holiday Show is part of Springfield's Festival of Lights which offers numerous events throughout downtown during this festive season.

For further details about this public event or additional attractions within Festival of Lights schedule visit springfieldmo.org or sgffestivaloflights.com.