By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The spirit of the season lit up Douglass Park as the Crenshaw County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony Dec. 3. The annual event marked the official start of the holiday season for the community.

The ceremony began at 6 p.m. with a warm welcome from Chamber member Steve Sanders. Mayor Ed Beasley shared a greeting with those present, emphasizing the importance of community during the holidays. This year, the honor of lighting the tree was given to Dale Shepherd, the Chamber’s 2024 Citizen of the Year.

Santa and Mrs. Claus added magic to the evening, delighting children alongside Mickey and Minnie Mouse. To complete the festive atmosphere, light flurries of snow set the stage for a picture-perfect night.

“The annual gathering is a great way to kick off the holiday season and gather together as a community, honor our small-town traditions and make memories with our children,” said Kathy Smyth, Chamber director. “The wonder in the little one’s eyes and the laughter really warmed our hearts on this cold December night.”

The Chamber’s Christmas tree lighting has grown significantly over the years. Initially held downtown with small, real trees, the ceremony moved to Douglass Park after a commercial-grade Christmas tree was acquired through a Quality of Life and Downtown Revitalization grant. The tree was purchased from Burr Industries in Andalusia, the same company behind the iconic Macy’s Department Store decorations. 

The evening included live entertainment by Easton Watson, who brought seasonal tunes to life. Guests sipped on hot chocolate and coffee drinks from the Grit & Grind Coffee Truck, while Salt Photography captured memorable moments.

Dale Shepherd, who was celebrated earlier this year as Citizen of the Year, reflected on the evening’s significance and her participation. 

“II still can’t believe I was selected as Citizen of the Year,” Shepherd said. “It’s something I would never have dreamed of. Living in a small county like ours takes everyone working together to make it such a special place. Doing the countdown for the tree lighting was a wonderful surprise.

“It is something that I would never have dreamed of. When you live in a county this small it takes everyone to keep it such a special place. I can say that doing the countdown for the tree lighting was also a surprise. Thanks to Kathy Smyth and the Chamber of Commerce for making the Christmas season special for all the citizens of Crenshaw county.”