Inaugural Christmas tree lighting event in Payson set for Dec. 5

PAYSON, Ill. — The Village of Payson is having its inaugural Christmas tree lighting event, “Kickoff to Christmas,” at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 in Payson’s South Park.

This free event offers entertainment, hot cocoa, candy canes, caroling, Christmas stories and other fun surprises. The event will culminate with Santa Claus lighting the tree at the center of the park at 7 p.m.

People are encouraged to bring an ornament to hang on the tree before the lighting. Children can mail letters to Santa Claus by using the Christmas mailbox in the park.

The Village of Payson also welcomes the return of the town-wide Christmas decorating contest in which the best-decorated homes are awarded a cash prize. A new format allows for two winners – the “Griswold Award” for the home receiving the top votes  receives a $50 prize, and the “McAllister Award” for honorable mention receives $25. Voting takes place by the town board in December.

“As we focus on new ways to bring life and excitement to our town, we are excited to bring our community together and start a new tradition with this event,” town trustee Kyle Beckman said in a press release. “We hope everyone in Payson and the surrounding communities join us as we kick off the holiday season.”

Kickoff to Christmas is made possible by support from the Payson Old Settlers Association, the Payson-Fall Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Payson Seymour elementary and high school programs, the Payson Masonic Lodge, Payson area churches and numerous other volunteers.

Admission to the event is free and open to the public.