Sparta Lighting Of The Christmas Tree And Shop Local Saturday

This Saturday in Sparta will be one of the first opportunities to get into the Christmas spirit.

It is the lighting of the Christmas Tree and other holiday festivities surrounding the evening. Chamber of Commerce Director Marvin Bullock said Santa Claus will be present with carriage rides and Christmas caroling.

“The lighting of the tree and this is a little piece of Americana that can only be experienced in a small town,” Bullock said. “We invite all of our neighbors in Cookeville, Crossville, McMinnville and so fourth and so on to come on over. It’s an absolute precious event.”

Bullock said in conjunction to the holiday event, local shops will be open for business. Bullock said Shop Local Saturday comes to Sparta with businesses extending hours to 7:00 p.m.

“Several of the downtown stores here in the historic district in Sparta that’s within walking distance of the square have said they would stay open for people to come in and do their Christmas shopping,” Bullock said. “Of course with all these container ships locked off the coast, we may be people’s last hope to get Christmas gifts.”

Bullock said Sparta’s tree lighting has always been a popular event in the region. Bullock said last time, over 2,500 people filled the square. Bullock said the community support helps local businesses while also sharing Christmas cheer.

“Christ Point Church is the one that organizes this event, and we are so thankful for it because it is a lot of fun and reflects the true meaning of Christmas,” Bullock said. “The kids will love it.”

This event this Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Bullock said set your GPS to 1 West Bockman Way. Bullock said for those traveling, parking should be available around the square or along Bockman Way.