The tree-lighting event began in 1983 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The Reporter. As a way of saying thank you to his hometown for a century of support, then publisher Richard Rico created and gifted the Main street three-flag monument to the community, leaving space and a receptacle in the center for a Christmas tree.

 

Nearly 40 years later – Merriment on Main is legendary! It’s such a part of the community, it has taken on a life of its own. Each year Main Street is covered with thousands of residents and visitors; vendors offer free treats, music is in the air and the holiday spirit is everywhere. It reaches a crescendo when thousands of voices count down, the switch is flipped, and the tree is lit.