FLORENCE– A new Christmas tradition is coming to Downtown Florence! The inaugural Florence Festival of Trees: Launching the Lights will transform Wilson Park into a festive display of 100 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, bringing families, businesses, and organizations together to celebrate the holiday season.
Local businesses, families, churches, civic groups, and organizations are invited to be part of the celebration by sponsoring and decorating a live, six-foot fir tree and designated sign. Each tree will reflect the creativity and personality of its sponsor, creating a one-of-a-kind Christmas display in the heart of Downtown Florence.
The holiday magic officially begins Friday, December 4, at 5:50 p.m., with Launching the Lights, a community celebration presented by Florence Parks and Recreation, One Louder, the Downtown Florence Alliance and Florence City Schools Career Tech & LAUNCH program. 
The evening will feature a Christmas market hosted by Downtown Florence Alliance, a special visit from Santa Manley, and live Christmas music performed by the Florence Fine Arts Academy. Families can shop the holiday market, enjoy festive entertainment, visit with Santa, and experience Wilson Park illuminated by 100 decorated Christmas trees.
The trees will remain on display through December 31, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to stroll through the park and enjoy the decorations throughout the Christmas season.
Tree reservations are now open for $300 each, with only 100 trees available. Participating businesses, organizations, and families will have a 6’ live fir tree to decorate and designated sign for the December 4 celebration and the season. The deadline to reserve a tree is November 16, or while supplies last.
Beyond creating a holiday tradition, the Festival of Trees supports Florence High School’s Career Technical Education and LAUNCH programs.
The inaugural festival is a collaborative effort involving Florence High School Career Tech/LAUNCH program, Florence Parks and Recreation, Downtown Florence Alliance, and Visit The Shoals / Florence-Lauderdale CVB, with sponsorship from One Louder.
Event Information:
Florence Festival of Trees: Launching the Lights
Friday, December 4, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.
Wilson Park | Downtown Florence
Evening Festivities:
- Lighting of 100 decorated Christmas trees
- Christmas Market hosted by Downtown Florence Alliance
- Santa Manley
- Live Christmas music by Florence Fine Arts Academy
- Holiday activities and a festive atmosphere for the whole family
Tree Sponsorship: $300
Reservation Deadline: November 16
Trees on Display: December 4 – 31
Learn More: www.launchingthelights.com
Media Release/Rachel Mansell/City of Florence
