Gaithersburg tree lighting celebrates century

The City of Gaithersburg will be making history this December with the 100th edition of its annual tree lighting ceremony.

The tree lighting will occur as part of a special Jingle Jubilee event that includes live music and dance performances. Performers include community choirs, dance troupes, and other youth ensembles. The outdoor venue will include limited seating as well as a lawn for spectators to spread out onto. The evening will conclude with the city’s large holiday tree being lit up in a ceremony meant to represent diverse holiday traditions.

The City will be using the event to solicit donations for the Holiday Giving Program. This program collects money to purchase gift cards for children and teens in need, and provides families the opportunity to participate in holiday events like the Day of Giving. Cash donations will be accepted along with corporate sponsorships.

The Jubilee will also include local vendors and exhibitors. Past events have included hot food and drink from local businesses like Sugusto and Matelna Bakes. Holiday tree-lighting events like this one are popular in many municipalities, often using methods like poster printing and social media to help connect with the community.

The 100th anniversary edition of the Jingle Jubilee & Tree Lighting will take place at the Concert Pavilion in Gaithersburg on the evening of December 4.