The sounds of Christmas cheer could be heard drifting through downtown Hobart as the city hosted its annual Tree Lighting ceremony on Friday. The event is returning for its second consecutive year after taking a break during the COVID-19 pandemic, and residents were out in droves.
The Tree Lighting event is more than a gathering for Hobart residents; it’s an opportunity for families to get out and come together. Doing so has been more important than ever following lockdown protocols. Mayor of Hobart Brian Snedecor sees the benefits in this honored tradition.
“Nikki Lopez, our Events Director, is always looking for ways to include families in the events. We feel like families locate here looking for these types of things, to find things going on in their city,” said Mayor Snedecor. “We the city need to partner with private businesses doing things that encourage people to get out and make new friends and meet new people. I believe in taking ownership in the community you live in. it speaks volumes to that.”
“These community events show an appreciation towards families in the community and it shows a lot of what the city does for us,” said Daniel Zapata.
Zapata came to the event with his two children who had just finished writing letters to Santa. While Santa was absent from the event after the unseasonably warm weather confused Rudolph into refusing to fly, attendees did not fear. A special mailbox was placed at the base of the tree so letters would make it directly to Santa. Santa will be personably answering each letter.
Prior to the lighting ceremony, the Hobart High School Band played Christmas songs while event goers spontaneously sang along. Broccoli cheese soup from Granger's restaurant in Hobart was handed out as well.
“We love the community and just wanted to give back,” said owner Nancy Granger. “I love everything that we do in this community. Mayor Snedecor is just awesome and does a lot of great events.”
Fireworks are a staple in Hobart celebrations, and the Tree Lighting was no exception. The Tree Lighting was followed by a fireworks display across Lake George that brightened the night sky in hues of reds, purples, and golds.
The Tree Lighting event was a fantastic way for Hobart to kick off the holiday season. It provided residents the chance to meet one of the new vendors in the area, and it’s a perfect lead-in to Hobart’s upcoming Holiday Market on Sunday.
“People are visiting from out of the city so this gives a chance for extended family to come down to a city event. It is a time when everyone can come with cheerful spirits. Having it goes right in small business Saturday and the Holiday Market Sunday,” said Snedecor.
The Tree Lighting provided attendees with the opportunity to see Hobart’s downtown area and the work being put in to keep the city inviting and friendly. With more development on the way, Hobart residents have more than just the holidays to look forward to.
“This is wonderful. This is a great town that does really cool things year long,” said resident Pat Bernecki.
To learn more about events in the City of Hobart, check out their calendar on their website.
