The city of Kenosha welcomed its annual holiday centerpiece this week as a towering 34‑foot Colorado blue spruce was placed in Veterans Memorial Park at 5220 Sixth Ave. The tree, weighing roughly 5,500 pounds, was donated by Kenosha Bible Church, located at 5405 67th St., and will be illuminated during the Lightin’ Up celebration on Friday, Nov. 27.
Community and faith unite for the tradition
Senior Pastor Bill Culbertson of Kenosha Bible Church expressed the congregation’s joy in contributing to the city’s holiday spirit. “We love that it’s being used for something that’s going to bring joy to so many people,” he said.
Mayor David Bogdala praised the collaborative effort that made the tradition possible. “The city’s Christmas tree is a special part of what makes the Christmas season so magical here,” he said. “We’re incredibly grateful to Kenosha Bible Church for this generous donation and to our Parks Department, Kenosha Water Utility and Kenosha Police Department for working together to bring it to Veterans Memorial Park. We look forward to seeing it illuminated and welcoming residents and visitors.”
Coordinated effort across city departments
The tree’s journey began with the Kenosha Parks Department, which cut the spruce with assistance from the Kenosha Water Utility. Once felled, the Kenosha Police Department provided a special escort to ensure a safe transit route through city streets. The coordinated effort highlights the city’s ability to mobilize multiple agencies for a single community purpose.
Lightin’ Up celebration to launch the season
Thousands of lights will be strung on the tree ahead of the Lightin’ Up event, the official start of Kenosha’s holiday season. The celebration, presented by the City of Kenosha in partnership with the Lakeshore Business Improvement District, Visit Kenosha, and various community sponsors, draws residents and visitors to the lakefront park each year.
When the tree is fully decorated and illuminated, it will be visible to anyone strolling through Veterans Memorial Park, offering a festive focal point for families, church groups, and tourists alike.
Looking ahead
City officials anticipate that the holiday lighting will boost foot traffic to local businesses and reinforce Kenosha’s reputation as a family‑friendly destination during the season. The tradition also provides an opportunity for faith‑based groups, civic leaders, and volunteers to come together in service of a shared community celebration.
As the lights are hung and the tree is prepared for its debut, Kenosha residents can look forward to a season marked by gratitude, togetherness, and the timeless charm of a beautifully lit Christmas tree.
Original reporting: Kenosha.com — read the source article.
