Clayton Rings in the Season with the 34th Annual Christmas Village and Tree Lighting

Clayton’s 34th Annual Christmas Village and Tree Lighting was a night filled with holiday magic and community spirit. On Thursday, December 5, Downtown Clayton transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities for all ages. The evening kicked off at 5 p.m. with a festive parade, leading to the big tree lighting ceremony at 7:15 p.m.

Guests were treated to timeless favorites like Santa’s visit, trackless train rides, and live performances from local school choirs and dance schools. New attractions this year included a walk-through light tunnel and an inflatable snow globe that quickly became a hit for photos. Families also enjoyed craft activities, glitter tattoos, and making reindeer food. A live nativity scene, cookie decorating, and hot chocolate made the evening even more special.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2024 Christmas Spirit Award to Ann Austin, also known as “Ms. Ann,” the founder and operator of the Clayton School of Dance. Ann’s dedication to the community and her inspiring work with local youth has made her a cherished figure in Clayton. Read more about “Ms. Ann” and her impact on our community here. The event also honored our local businesses with a Storefront Decorating Contest. This year’s contest saw a wonderful display of creativity as businesses in Downtown Clayton showcased their holiday spirit with beautiful, festive decorations. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this holiday tradition – it was a magical night we won’t soon forget! To view a complete photo gallery of the event, visit the Town’s Facebook Page.