From press and staff reports
The Town of McCool kicked off the holiday season the night of November 29 with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, drawing residents downtown for an evening of music, crafts, and community celebration.
The event began at 5:30 p.m. with children’s crafts and a silent auction. Along Main Street festive decorations and storefront lights set the tone for the night. Families bundled against the cool weather gathered as carolers performed traditional Christmas favorites.
At 6 p.m., the community joined in the countdown as the town’s Christmas tree lit up, signaling the official start of the season. Santa Claus made a special appearance shortly afterward, posing for photos and greeting children.
Proceeds from the silent auction, hosted by the McCool 39108 Committee, will go toward the McCool Agriculture Building Restoration Project. The committee reported strong participation and expressed appreciation for the support shown by residents. Many attendees embraced the holiday spirit by wearing their “ugliest” Christmas sweaters.
After the lighting ceremony, residents gathered at the McCool Volunteer Fire Department for refreshments and socializing — a tradition that continues to anchor the event as a warm, close-knit celebration of small-town holiday life.