Montgomery to Host Tree Lighting Ceremony, Festival of Trees

Montgomery's annual Tree Lighting, sponsored by the village and the Greater Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, at Village Hall.

Visitors will welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus as they arrive on a fire truck, enjoy free cookies and hot cocoa and listen to area school children perform some of their favorite Christmas songs. Attendees can also enjoy beautiful Christmas trees displayed throughout the Village Hall and vote for their favorite tree.

Montgomery officials said the Festival of Trees, a new feature of the event last year, was such a huge hit that it will be continuing this year. This is an opportunity for local businesses to join in the festivities by displaying a decorated tree in Village Hall, promote their business to hundreds of area residents, and possibly earn the coveted title of “Favorite Decorated Tree” in the village.

Trees will their debut during the Tree Lighting event Dec. 2, and will remain on display for community viewing and voting through Dec. 20. All trees will adorn the halls and lobbies of the Village Hall. There is no charge to participate.

The Festival of Trees provides a great opportunity for businesses to reach out to the community. Businesses are encouraged to decorate their tree in a creative way that promotes the business and the products or services offered.

Businesses interested in providing a tree for the Festival of Trees can call Debbie Buchanan at 630-896-8080, Ext. 1114, for additional information and an application form. Space is limited and is being offered on a first-come, first served basis.

Last year many businesses participated, with the winning tree provided by Montgomery and Countryside Fire Department. Other honorable mentions were Orchard Animal Hospital, Brian and Sons Inc., Coffman Trucks, Water Lily Floral, Community Christian Church, Harris Bank, Schaeffer Green Houses, Blockbuster, Premier Designs High Fashion, and Kids Heaven Party/Novelty Shop.