David Halbrooks sings Christmas carols at last year’s Christmas in the Park at Falkville. | File Photo

The Falkville annual tradition of Christmas in the Park will be held Sun., Dec. 7, at 4 p.m. in Jack McCaig Park.

The 17th annual community gathering features holiday music by several local groups and individuals. The Falkville High School band will perform under the direction of Bradley Phillips, and David Halbrooks will lead community Christmas carols.

Julie Asherbranner will read “The Legend of the Christmas Tree” poem before the ceremonial lighting of the tree.

John Russell, pastor of Gandy’s Cove and Falkville United Methodist, will lead an invocation.

Community Pride, a local ladies’ group, hosts the annual event. They provide hot chocolate and cookies for guests.

Traditionally, the late Jim Grissom would be the master of ceremonies, introducing each group and kicking off the holiday season. This year’s master of ceremonies will be Community Pride member Frances Rowe.

Community Pride member Tina Rogers said Christmas in the Park is a tradition in Falkville.

“It’s really the same every year, which is nice,” Rogers said. “It really brings the community together, and that’s what we need.”

Christmas in the Park has been kicking off the Christmas season in Falkville for nearly two decades. The park is always decorated with lights on the pavilion, greenery on the caboose and bows and wreaths on the light poles.

“The event is a great way for the community to start the holiday season off right,” said Community Pride member Bonnie Thompson. “Community Pride wanted to say “thank you” to the community and wish everyone a merry Christmas, so we have this event every first Sunday in December.”

Town Clerk Dawn Estes said Christmas in the Park has always been a family tradition ever since her three children sang in the children’s choir at Fairview: the Grace Place.

“We all enjoy the peace and calm the event brings,” Estes said. “It’s a time that we can all be together and enjoy the company without having to worry about the busy times during the holidays. It’s a special way to remember the cheer and community of Christmas.”