Tree Lighting Ceremony to Include New Festival of Trees

This December, Montgomery businesses will help deck the village’s halls and lobby with holiday cheer.

Through the inaugural Festival of Trees initiative, Montgomery business owners can decorate a tree in honor of their business and display it at Village Hall for community viewing and voting from Dec. 4 through Dec. 16.

“It’s a way for businesses to get their names out there during the holidays, but also to be a part of the community,” said Deputy Village Clerk Ruth Maloy. “It’s important for businesses to show they’re part of the community.”

The unveiling of the trees will coincide with the village’s annual tree lighting, which begins at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. The event is sponsored by the and the Greater Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce.

Each year, hundreds of area residents attend the tree lighting. Visitors get to see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a fire truck, enjoy free cookies and cocoa, and listen to area school children perform some of their favorite Christmas songs.

The response from the village’s business community has been so positive, officials are already planning to bring the Festival of Trees back next year.

“They are really excited to do it,” Maloy said. “They think it’s a neat idea. We hope it grows every year.”

The voting will determine which Montgomery business earns the coveted title of “Favorite Decorated Tree” in the village.

“Businesses can decorate their trees however they want,” Maloy said. “They can decorate it to show their business, or just decorate it like a regular tree. A sign will be under the tree with their company’s name.”

There is no charge for businesses to participate.
                   
Local businesses that have already signed up to participate include , , Coffman Truck Sales, Harris Bank and.
           
Businesses interested in providing a tree for the Festival of Trees can call Maloy at (630) 896-8080, Ext. 1116 for additional information and an application form. Space is limited and is being offered on a first-come, first served basis.