On Friday, November 18, 2023, Monroe held its annual Christmas Tree Lighting, welcoming the Christmas season. The weather was pleasant enough to not be freezing, but cold enough to make it feel like the holiday season.
The turnout for the event was large. Hundreds of people gathered to watch the tree lighting and partake in the festive activities in the downtown square. Some of the activities were meeting Santa and taking pictures with him and Mrs. Claus. You also could have had the opportunity to meet the Grinch and Cindy Lou. There were also horse and wagon rides and a petting farm.
The tree lighting isn’t just a visual event; it brings Monroe together. The tree lighting also brought family and friends together with joy, happiness, and food, allowing them to continue or make new traditions.
Businesses such as Friendly Ford Lincoln, Monroe County Credit Union, and DTE came together to decorate and financially support the lights and decorations.
The smell of hot cocoa filled the cold air bringing comfort and joy to people all around downtown. Anna and Elsa came and surprised the kids, taking pictures and giving hugs.
The event tends to grow more and more each year, with activities and local retailers outside of the downtown square joining in the fun or offering discounts during those hours.
The community of Monroe came together to ring in the holidays!
To end the night people listened to music as the community came together to countdown the lighting of the tree.