Lighting up the Spirit of Giving
There’s no better way to kick off Christmas by the Lake than by joining us at Clear Lake City Park for a festive Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 1st, at 5:30 pm. We’re excited to introduce a new tradition that promises to bring the spirit of the season to our community.
Learn more about Christmas by the Lake, a festive weekend getaway!
Welcoming a New Tradition
The City of Clear Lake Parks & Recreation crew, Jim Jackson and Seth Townsend, have teamed up with Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce events staff, Trish Fundermann and Jenny Fasbender, to create a truly magical tree display. The Canaan Fir, native to Iowa, takes center stage at the Bandshell, decked out for the ceremony and surrounded by beautiful lighted greenery donated by Curries | ASSA ABLOY. We want to welcome Clear Lakers near and far to join us for this experience – the ceremony will be streamed live on our Clear Lake, Iowa Facebook page.
The Ceremony
Chamber President & CEO, Stacy Doughan, will extend a warm welcome to the community, setting the stage for an evening filled with holiday magic. As we gather with friends and family at the Bandshell, take time to enjoy the scenery of Clear Lake City Park and the Seawall after the sun dips below the horizon.
Sing Along with Wavelength
Get ready to be holi-dazzled by Wavelength, the Clear Lake High School Jazz Ensemble, as they serenade us with acapella renditions of classic holiday songs. Join in the festive spirit by singing along to these favorites chosen for the ceremony: “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Carol of the Bells,” and “Silent Night.”
A Story of Strength and Hope
Mayor Nelson Crabb will share thoughts on the importance of community, setting the stage as special guest Adeline Lovell takes the spotlight. Adeline, who bravely faced a leukemia diagnosis in July 2022 at age four, will share her inspiring journey and have the honor of lighting the Clear Lake Christmas tree.
Santa’s Grand Entrance
Santa Claus himself will make a grand entrance by circling the park on a fire truck, creating excitement and anticipation for his and Mrs. Claus appearance Saturday at Christmas by the Lake. While Santa won’t be in his Santa House for visits until the following day, his presence will fill the air with the magic of Christmas.
Learn more about visiting Clear Lake’s Santa!
Join Adeline’s Army in Spreading Cheer
Help us spread even more holiday cheer by bringing donations for the brave children at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Chris & Morgan Lovell, along with Adeline herself, will personally deliver these heartfelt gifts to the amazing kids. Simply bring your unwrapped toy donation and place it under the tree at the tree lighting ceremony, or drop items off at the Chamber or CL Tel by December 18th.
Extend the Celebration
Following the tree-lighting ceremony, we hope you continue the festivities at the Surf Ballroom on Friday evening for the Christmas with the Nelsons holiday concert. Then, be sure to come back downtown on Saturday for Christmas by the Lake. The spirit of the season will be ringing throughout our beautifully decorated stores and special activities, encouraging you to shop local this holiday season!
We welcome you to join us in creating lasting memories and spreading joy this holiday season. See you at the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 1st – let’s make it a night to remember!
Click here for the Christmas by the Lake schedule of events.