Taunton announces Lights Festival, parade, activities, to celebrate Christmas

Taunton, MA . . . Today Mayor Shaunna O’Connell invited the public to join in upcoming Christmas festivities, including the annual Lights On Festival and Christmas Parade.

“It’s exciting to see the decorations go up as the Christmas City begins to prepare for the holiday season. There is no more joyful time of year than Christmas when we focus on family, faith, and enduring traditions,” said O’Connell.

The City of Taunton’s 109th Lighting of the Green is being held on Saturday, December 3, 2022 followed by the Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 4, 2022. This year’s theme is “Christmas Around the World.”

Colleen Simmons, Executive Director of the Downtown Taunton Foundation, has been working closely with the Mayor’s Office and Parks & Recreation Department to prepare the Downtown area for this popular event which draws thousands of people to Taunton every year. “Downtown merchants and organizations are excited to welcome families to this time-honored tradition. Our Downtown has a lot to offer throughout the year, but it is particularly special during the holiday season,” said Simmons.

Lights On Festival: The Lights On Festival will take place from 3pm-8pm in Downtown Taunton on Saturday, December 3, 2022. The official ceremony starts at 4:30pm with the Lighting of the Green and Santa’s arrival.

Lights On Buttons: Lights On buttons are required for indoor activities and for some of the outdoor activities such as train rides. Buttons cost $5 each and are not required for children 12 and under. Buttons are currently available for sale in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall, Taunton Public Library, Trucchi’s (both locations), Studio 27 Flowers, Tux Towne and Taunton Federal Credit Union. In addition, buttons will be on sale at various locations during the Festival as well.

Lights On Ornaments: As in previous years, Lights On ornaments are being offered for sale. Ornaments cost $15 and can be purchased in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall, Parks & Recreation (170 Harris St.) and Taunton Federal Credit Union.

Christmas Parade & Raffle Baskets: The Christmas Parade will start at noon on Sunday, December 4, 2022 on Broadway and will follow Broadway to Downtown Taunton. The parade will conclude near Marian Manor on Summer Street. In support of the Christmas Parade, the 7th Annual Basket Raffle is ongoing until December 6, 2022. Raffle baskets are currently on display and tickets are for sale on the 2nd floor (front entrance) of City Hall at 15 Summer Street. All are welcome to stop by and see the creative baskets crafted and donated by City of Taunton employees. Chances are 10 tickets/$10 or 24 tickets/$20. Winners will be drawn prior to the City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 6th.

Gingerbread House Decorating Contest: The Mayor’s Office is hosting the 3rd Annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest starting on Monday, December 5, 2022 and closing on Monday, December 19, 2022. Photos of decorated gingerbread houses (no professional entries) may be submitted at gingerbread@taunton-ma.gov. Photo entries will be shared on the City of Taunton Facebook page. City Hall employees will vote for the best gingerbread house (adult and child categories) and the winners will be announced on Tuesday, December 20, 2022.

Downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest: Downtown businesses will participate in the annual Downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest beginning on November 30, 2022. Residents can vote online for their favorite decorated windows on the Downtown Taunton Foundation Facebook page. Winners will be announced on December 3, 2022.

Every year, local businesses, community organizations, private individuals and City employees work together to make Christmas a special time for City residents. Mayor O’Connell is grateful for all of the sponsors and volunteers who generously donate time and money in support of the City’s holiday events. “Christmas brings out the best in all of us. The display of generosity and giving during the holiday season is truly uplifting,” O’Connell said.