Rossville's Christmas tree contest grows into holiday tradition

Rossville City Council member Erica Harris was watching a Netflix program called “Virgin River,” on which she saw a Christmas tree decorating contest. “I want to do that,” she thought. So, she did — right in her hometown of Rossville, on the John Ross Commons. Harris set up 20 trees along the wide walkways and invited organizations and businesses to decorate them. The first year, Harris didn’t expect a huge turnout, but about 300-400 people showed up. The event has grown since. This year will mark the third. Local businesses donate money for live trees and supplies for activities. Harris said some years cost more than others. She usually raises $3,000 to $5,000. Last year, she and volunteers built solid wood bases for the trees that stay up until January 1, Harris said. There is no cost to the groups that decorate, but the group must have a team of four and must provide its own decorations. Each tree has two electrical outlets, so lights are an option. The trees are the center of the event, but there’s lots more. There’s holiday music, community Christmas caroling, Santa and his sleigh for pictures, a live nativity scene, food for sale (hot cocoa, snacks, pizza), and cool free activities for kids. Children can decorate a sugar cookie, make a s’more from a kit and toast it over a fire pit (with parental assistance), and join a scavenger hunt. Harris is adding a memorial tree this year. Anyone from the public can hang a small picture or special ornament on it in memory of someone they’ve lost. Harris allows a limited number of vendors — usually five. One person sells handmade ornaments. Another sells balloon animals and cotton candy. Harris said she bought trophies the first year but was disappointed in their quality. Then a community member volunteered to make trophies that Harris is delighted with. “The event is a lot of fun,” Harris said. “I wanted to create a Hallmark-type atmosphere and I think that’s what we’ve done.” Plenty of parking is available, Harris said, including some spaces set aside for handicap parking. Harris said she has three trees still available this year, but she’s open to buying a few more if necessary. Rossville Christmas Spirit Tree Decorating Competition Saturday, Nov. 21, from 3-5 p.m. John Ross Commons No cost to attend Free activities for kids Hot cocoa, snacks, pizza for sale More information: tinyurl.com/2kj6yrb4