Columbia’s annual Christmas celebration will have a new look and location this year as the city moves many of its traditional holiday activities from downtown to City Park.
Mayor Justin McKenzie said the shift is part of a broader effort to rebrand and revitalize the city’s seasonal festivities while providing more space for attractions and visitors.
Most of the decorations and displays that were previously scattered along Main and Second streets — including the Live Nativity — will now be centered in the park. McKenzie said the event will transform City Park into a walk-through holiday experience featuring new lighting, decorations and activities for families.
The downtown area will still sparkle with roofline lights and garland on street poles, but the bulk of the celebration will focus on the park. McKenzie said the city is planning a nightly event schedule, with hopes of keeping the park lit and staffed every evening to maintain safety and avoid vandalism. Temporary staff will be hired to handle hospitality, tickets and vendor coordination.
“This is about doing something new and positive for our community,” McKenzie said. “We want to continue the Christmas tradition but also create something that draws people into town and supports our local businesses.”
The redesigned event will include food trucks, live local singers and special attractions such as a Ferris wheel and the Clydesdale horses. The mayor said the city is seeking sponsors to help fund the expanded festivities.
The celebration is expected to begin around Dec. 1 — or possibly the weekend following the annual Christmas parade — and run through Christmas Day.
“We’re putting a lot of work into making this something people can look forward to every year,” McKenzie said. “It’s about community, family and keeping Columbia’s Christmas spirit strong.”
