An annual holiday festivity in Columbus takes on a new look this season. On Monday, Dec. 1 the lighting of the city Christmas tree expands and moves to the east end of the renovated Old Tombigbee River Bridge at the Riverwalk downtown. In the past, a tall cedar has been put up next to the Welcome Center, and the lighting usually incorporated into Wassail Fest.

This year, one of the living magnolia trees at the bridge will be festooned with lights in a stand-alone event. Columbus Mayor Robert Smith will “flip the switch” during festivities from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“What a great way to kick off the holiday season!” said Main Street Columbus Executive Director Barbara Bigelow. “Everyone is invited to gather at the east end of the Tombgibee Bridge. We’ll have hot chocolate and cookies, take-home crafts for kids to make, caroling and lots of fun.”

Caroling begins at 5:30 p.m. with New Journey Church’s “Joy’s Glory.” The Heritage Academy First Grade Choir performs at 6 p.m. Mayor Smith will light the tree at approximately 6:15 p.m., followed by Mississippi University for Women’s United Harmony gospel choir leading traditional carols.

Santa and Miz Claus and their Christmas elves will be on hand for photographs, so don’t forget the cameras.

“This beautiful evening will give all kids, both young and old, a wonderful and joyous time together — a night of family fun,” remarked Bigelow. “Be sure to bundle up and dress for the weather. Nothing will be allowed to dampen the spirit of the season.”

Main Street Columbus is also finalizing plans for other downtown holiday events — Wassail Fest Dec. 5 from 5-8 p.m. and the Columbus Christmas Parade Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. For more information about any of the seasonal activities, contact the MSC office at 662-328-6305 or visit columbusmainstreet.com.

Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.