Livingston Bringing In Rides, Ice Rink To Help Christmas Events

Livingston approved up to $25,000 in expenses to boost attendance for Christmas events.

Downtown Revitalization Chairman Ray Evans said local merchants want to see sustained attendance for Christmas in the Country. Evans said a carousel, mini-ferris wheel would make a difference.

“We really think that would an additional attraction and sort of really keep the momentum going for that third event,” Evans said. “The next thing would be the renting of an artificial ice skating rink.”

Mayor Curtis Hayes said the artificial ice rink would be set up for three days during the weekend before Christmas. The rink would be stationed at Livingston’s Central Park.

“I’m aware of a similar situation in Market Square in Knoxville every year that it’s there for five or six weeks,” Evans said. “It’s amazing the draw that comes from all over east Tennessee just to come to Market Square to ice skate. Even on rainy days, you’ll still have a fair number of folks there.”

Hayes said the availability of the rides would be pending, with the rides likely being split between the second and third Christmas in the Country events. The idea of having the rides available on Saturday was discussed, but closing down roads for two days in a row was not seen as feasible.