Despite temperatures hovering around the freezing point, dozens of people attended the annual Jefferson Matters: Main Street Christmas tree lighting event at the new location of the Thomas Jefferson Gardens.

The Greene County Singers treated everyone to holiday favorites like Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls. Coordinator Angie Reese-Hueser says the community choir was a highlight of the event.

“I think they actually made our event. I think that they were huge. They were really great. A lot of people really enjoyed them. I’ve already gotten tons of compliments on the choir. So I’m really happy with that.”

Santa Claus paid visit and tells Raccoon Valley Radio that he’s impressed every year he comes to Jefferson for the annual event.

“Santa loves it when it’s cold outside and Thomas Jefferson Gardens couldn’t look any better than it does. It’s very beautiful and the decorations and all the happy people here. It’s a great way to start out the Christmas season.”

Following the lighting of the Christmas tree, the sugar plum fairies performed for the crowd and everyone enjoyed a free cookie from Homestead Coffee and Bakery.    

Reese-Hueser was pleased with how the event turnout and she was thrilled that there were so many happy people.