Oswego’s Tree Lighting, Christmas Walk to be Held on Different Nights

For the first time the Oswego tree lighting ceremony will not be the same night as the annual Christmas Walk.

It won’t be the same tree, either.

The Village board discussed the idea of spitting the event after a recommendation from staff.

Staff reports said that only about 25-30 people attend the tree lighting ceremony, which has been the kick-off event for the Village’s downtown Christmas Walk.

“It kicks off the event, but it doesn’t need to be a part of it,” said Community Relations Manager Michele Brown.

So this year the  board agreed that it would be a good idea to host the tree lighting and the Christmas Walk as separate events. The Tree Lighting is planned for Sunday, Dec. 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

But it won’t be at Jackson and Main.

The Village decided to decorate one of the many pine trees at Village Hall, 100 Parkers Mill, rather than the tree downtown that has jokingly at times been called the “Charlie Brown Christmas Tree.” The tree would be on the corner of Washington and Route 31.

“A tree at Village Hall would be seen by many more people,” said Brown.

The new tree would also be on Village-owned property, rather than the downtown site where the Village has permission to use the tree until the land is sold.

The Tree Lighting Ceremony would invite members of the public to hear music put on by local groups of carolers, have refreshments and mingle at Village Hall.

“I think it’s a great idea to kick off the season,” said Village president Brian LeClercq.

Trustee Gail Jonson agreed. “I love opening up this hall to the residents. It’s their building. We don’t get enough people in here.”

The Christmas Walk is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6 – Sunday, Dec. 8.