Murfreesboro, TN - The Heart of Tennessee glowed brightly with love Friday evening (12/6/2024) as Main Street Murfreesboro coordinated the lighting of the living Christmas tree on the northeast side of the historic Rutherford County Courthouse featuring entertainment, caroling, the lighting of the tree, and of course a visit from Santa. Many times the event has been described as a living Norman Rockwell drawing. 

Special thanks to Middle Tennessee Electric for again hosting the stage show of Christmas music before Santa and Mrs. Claus throw the switch on the giant living Leyland cypress. County Mayor Bill Ketron planted the 30-foot tree at the courthouse in October, 2018, and now it's around 50-feet tall. The cypress started in a Rutherford County farm and is now enjoyed by the Volunteer State's fastest growing county. 

Even the picture here is special. Local photographer and Vice Mayor Bill Shacklett captured the memory of this year's tree from the balcony of Shacklett's Photography across from the festive event on the eastside of Murfreesboro's square. The slight elevation of the camera angle gave a perspective of the many people who braved temps in the teens.

Middle Tennessee Electric continues the festive service started years earlier by its predecessor.

MTE's Jay Sanders said, "This event was a wonderful experience for all the residents in attendance. We even had some snow flurries provided by MTE's snow machine! We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."  

As has been noted in the past, Murfreesboro is fortunate to have a traditional four-sided town square with the courthouse as a focal point.  Many don't realize it, but it also served as the state capitol from 1918 to 1926. 

Main Street's Executive Director Sarah Callender reminded everyone to get your cameras ready! Santa will be at the Rutherford County Courthouse on Saturdays from 10:00AM to 2:00PM (December 7, 14, and 21).

Festive downtown activities don't end with the tree lighting. Every Monday, a gift basket from a historic district merchant will be given away. Just sign-up as you patronize our mom-and-pop stores for perfect Christmas gifts. That continues December 9 and 16. And of course, every day is perfect to shop local!