Coppell kicked off this winter season on Saturday evening, as hundreds of residents gathered at Andrew Brown Park East for the City of Coppell’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. The festive event prompted a cheerful beginning for winter celebrations through community.
Families began arriving well before sunset, staking out spots around the main stage as food trucks lined the park’s field. Children darted between craft stations, writing letters to Santa and decorating ornaments, while local vendors offered everything from hot cocoa to handmade holiday gifts.
Prior to the official tree lighting, various groups filled floats for athletic teams, local stores and more during the holiday parade. Coppell Band and Lariettes’ energy lit up the chilly evening.
The suspense and excitement built as was Mayor Wes Mays’s countdown to the tree lighting commenced. As the clock hit zero, the massive evergreen strung with thousands of LED lights burst into a warm glow, spurring cheers. Machines along the stage released soft flurries of snow, creating a moment that felt straight out of a movie.
Eight-year-old Bailey Upchurch explained that the post tree lighting drone show is just as, if not more, magical.
“My favorite part of this event is the drones.” Upchurch said. “It’s just so beautiful.”
Beyond the tree and fantastical drone show, the community got together for playful holiday cheer. Booths from Coppell Lacrosse and the Parks and Recreation Department set up games, pictures with Santa, holiday trains, letters to Santa and more.
As the night wrapped up with final Christmas songs, families filtered out toward the parking lots in a light and celebratory mood. The annual tradition created excitement for the holiday season, kicking off December with color, music and a sense of holiday spirit.
“I think it was a success,” community experiences special events coordinator Megan Beaujean said. “We had great turnout and a lot of fun.”
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