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Tullahoma Community Foundation’s third annual tree lighting festival drew quite a crowd on Saturday. Undeterred by the cold weather, the crowd had a great time visiting the vendors before the lighting took place.

The petting zoo seemed to be the hit of the festival. Teresa Harrell, owner of Party Animals, brought in sheep, goats, a cow and calf, a camel, an alpaca, an even a porcupine. Small cups of feed were provided for children to feed the animals, and neither the children nor the animals seemed to tire of it.

The Letters to Santa spot, sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was popular as well. Children could write their letters put them in envelopes, and Mrs. Claus graciously agreed to take them back to Santa. Mrs. Claus (Dot Watson) with her helper (Cathy Connelly) had her own booth, reading Christmas stories to the kids. The Literacy Council provided the books.

There was face painting, craft booths, and Scentsy products. Sport Clips gave away free hot chocolate, and coupons for free haircuts at their soon to open Tullahoma location. The Seafood Place gave away free samples of their delicious clam chowder. Food trucks with tacos and soft pretzels were available as well.  

Even the presence of the Grinch didn’t dampen spirits. Many of the crowd had their picture made with him. He actually seemed happy to oblige.

The caboose was also popular, with an estimated 180 people going through to see a part of bygone days.

The highlight of the event took place at dusk with the lighting of the George Orr Memorial tree and caboose. The lucky winners who got to “flip the switch” were Lisa Khysinger and Quinn Lemker. With that the Christmas season has officially begun in Tullahoma.