Magic Returns to Huntsville with Tinsel Trail
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit as the Tinsel Trail makes its grand comeback to Big Spring Park this Friday, November 29. Promising a feast for the eyes and heart, the Tinsel Trail is all set to sprinkle some much-needed holiday magic throughout Downtown Huntsville.
A Celebration for All
The Tinsel Trail is not just another holiday event; it’s an opportunity for families and friends to come together and celebrate. According to Rob Buddo, President & CEO of Downtown Huntsville Inc., “The trail is designed to be family-friendly, offering a safe and festive space for people of all ages to gather and enjoy.” He adds that the event encourages families to walk the trail, capture beautiful photos, and bask in the glimmer of the lights, creating treasured memories and holiday traditions.
The Birth of a Tradition
Started back in 2011 by a dedicated group known as Downtown47, the Tinsel Trail began as a way to enhance the vibrancy of downtown Huntsville. Originally, this charming attraction featured just 160 trees. According to Karla Palacios, Downtown Districts and Events Manager, “The event came about because a group of young professionals wanted to create vibrancy in downtown and send a message to the community that young professionals would show up and support events.” Fast forward to this year, the trail has expanded to include Big Spring Park West and will showcase a whopping 450 decorated trees from various local businesses, organizations, and families.
Attracting Visitors from All Over
Last year, the Tinsel Trail drew in around 137,000 visitors, not only from local Madison County but even from far-flung places like New York, Texas, and Wyoming! This impressive influx indicates just how much holiday spirit this event brings to the community.
Kickoff Celebration on Black Friday
The festivities kick off on Black Friday itself, starting with the Tinsel Trail Market running from 2 to 8 p.m., culminating in a delightful Rocket City Tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. The opening night is set to feature artisan vendors, scrumptious food trucks, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, delightful Christmas carolers, as well as fun activities for children. Huntsville’s Mayor, Tommy Battle, will make remarks as part of the festivities.
A Sustainable Approach
Where do all those trees come from, you ask? They are sourced from High County Christmas Trees in Boone, North Carolina. What’s even cool is that after the Tinsel Trail concludes on December 31, the Huntsville City Parks and Recreation team will work with landscape management to recycle as many trees as possible for various landscaping projects throughout the year. “The recycled trees are used for various landscaping projects throughout the year,” Palacios explains.
Interesting Stories to Share
Every year, there are memorable moments, and the Tinsel Trail is no exception. One of the trees even went viral last year! McWilliams Marketing designed a special Taylor Swift Christmas tree that caught the attention of Swifties around the area. Their online excitement led to coverage by a news station from Oklahoma.
Free Fun Awaiting All
The Tinsel Trail is free and open 24/7, allowing visitors to explore at their leisure, regardless of weather conditions! Plus, special events are on the calendar, including the Big Spring Jingle on December 20 at 4 p.m. Organizers are turning Big Spring Park West into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, live music, a dance floor, and numerous prizes and giveaways. Kids will also have the chance to meet Santa, who is taking a break from his North Pole workshop to snap photos with excited guests.
Skating in the Park Returns
The joy doesn’t stop there! Skating in the Park is also back near the Huntsville Museum of Art, running from November 27 to January 5. So lace up those skates and make the most of this exciting season. Get ready to create some unforgettable family memories!
