Tree Lighting goes dark this year

Reedsburg won’t have a Community Christmas Tree this year due to COVID-19.

Organizers canceled the event after conferring with health professionals.

This is only one of a handful of local celebrations cut out due to the pandemic. Others chopped from the block include the Cookie Walk and Living Windows.

Planners announced that they want to bring the lighting back in 2021.

Reedsburg Mayor Dave Estes said organizers didn’t have much choice in the matter amid the gravity of the current environment.

“Naturally, we are very sad and disappointed to have to cancel this wonderful event,” Estes said. “But the safety and security of the citizens of Reedsburg remains our top priority as we hope to round the corner of this unprecedented global public health emergency.”

The tree lighting ceremony was relaunched in 2018 as the brainchild of Estes, who wanted to bring it back. It includes a commemorative ornament.

“I would like to thank the committee for their work in putting this event on. While the committee and I share deep disappointment with the outcome of this year’s holiday celebrations, you can rest assured that next year’s Tree Lighting and holiday events will be the biggest and best yet. In the meantime, please stay safe and aware of the impact of COVID-19 in our community,” he said.

There will be no commemorative ornament this year.

For further information, contact Estes at 524-6404 or mayor@ci.reedsburg.wi.us.