Last Friday evening the City of St. Cloud officially kicked off its Christmas holiday season with record-breaking crowds filling the area in front of St. Cloud City Hall as the community came together for the 34th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration, an event city officials say drew the largest attendance in its history. The atmosphere was electric as families, friends, and neighbors gathered to officially welcome the Christmas season.
The evening opened with musical entertainment from the St. Cloud High School Jazz Band and Ensemble “Swingle Bells.” Shortly after, Mayor Chris Robertson welcomed the Miss Silver Spurs Court to the stage, led by Miss Silver Spurs Jasmine Livingston, marking one of the first highlights of the night as the community applauded their presence.
City leaders then stepped forward to continue the program. St. Cloud Parks & Recreation leaders Rose Testerman and Jarvis Fulton recognized the city’s Volunteer of the Year, proudly introducing J.P. Decker for his outstanding service.
A powerful moment came when Vice Mayor Ken Gilbert, surrounded by his family, invited everyone to join in the countdown to light the tree. As the crowd’s voices lifted together, the towering Christmas tree burst into brilliant color, drawing cheers and applause as City Hall glowed with holiday light.
Following the tree lighting, the celebration continued with a full slate of performances. Council Member Jennifer Paul introduced the St. Cloud Golden Girls Dancers, led by Shana Burns, whose energetic holiday routines drew enthusiastic applause. Additional performances from the combined choirs of Lakeview Elementary and East Lake Elementary, the St. Cloud High School Dancers, and the St. Cloud High Acapella Group Harmonix filled the plaza with classic holiday music.
St. Cloud’s beloved mascot, Sami the Sandhill Crane, made a festive appearance in Santa-style attire, greeting families and posing for photos throughout the night.
Excitement reached another peak when Council Member Shawn Fletcher announced that Santa Claus was about arrive aboard a St. Cloud Fire Rescue engine. After a slight delay, Santa made his way through the crowd waving to cheering children as the jazz band played. His entrance quickly became one of the evening’s most memorable moments.
As the celebration continued, families enjoyed bounce houses, games, snow sledding, food vendors, and more. Snow machines sent gentle flurries drifting across the event area, adding a touch of winter magic that elevated the festive atmosphere.
The celebration concluded with a cheerful holiday send-off, wrapping up a night filled with community spirit, music, and joy.
St. Cloud’s Tree Lighting Celebration once again showcased the heart of the community—a place where tradition shines, families gather, and the holiday season begins with togetherness and excitement.
