Warner Robins hosts annual Christmas tree lighting

WARNER ROBINS (41NBC/WMGT) – It’s officially ‘almost Christmas’ in Warner Robins. Residents came out tonight to watch Mayor Toms flip the switch and turn on the lights to the city’s Christmas Tree.

The Countdown to December 25th in Warner Robins is on. “This is what Warner Robins is all about. It’s about community, it’s about joining together, celebrating things together and what better thing to celebrate than Christmas?” said Mayor Randy Toms.

Residents came together for the city’s 4th annual Christmas tree lighting in front of city hall on Monday.

“It’ll be on from now on–all the way through Christmas which is a blessing,” said resident Donald McNeal. “This brought the community out. Courtyard Marriot brought out cookies and hot chocolate for all of us out here,” Mayor Toms added.

The Mayor, residents and even the one and only Santa Claus came to see that green tree glow.

“Mandy, my assistant has really close connections with everybody but she also has connections with Santa Claus so, she was able to get him to come down here for a little while and we’re thankful for that,” Toms said.

While he and others waited for the big moment, Claus says he got to hear what kids have been waiting for all year long.

“We’ve had a lot of kids come in so far to give me their request for what they want me to bring ’em this year,” Claus said.

McNeal says his request is to keep up the new tradition of lighting the tree at city hall.

“It was about time Warner Robins stepped up and did one. I was so glad to see it. I think it’s just the best thing in the world and each year. I think it’ll grow and be better and better,” said McNeal.

The tree in Warner Robins stands at a whopping 24 feet tall and has more than 1,000 lights on it. If you weren’t there tonight, there’s still a chance you could join in on the holiday spirit this weekend at the city’s annual Christmas Parade on Saturday.

The parade starts Saturday at 10:00 AM on South Davis Drive and ends at the intersection of North Houston Road and Watson Boulevard.