Holiday Tradition on the Square is returning to downtown Fairfield this Christmas with a few new additions alongside its familiar displays, the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce announced.
For decades, the event has helped make Fairfield known as the Christmas City. Generations of families have enjoyed strolling around the Square, admiring the lights, sharing holiday memories, and taking photos with the beloved displays — some of which have been part of the tradition for more than 50 years.
“Holiday Tradition on the Square is about so much more than decorations and lights. It’s about memories, traditions, and the excitement of bringing families downtown year after year,” said Jessica Anderson, co-chair of the Christmas Committee. “We know how much these displays mean to our community, and while some need a little extra attention, we also want to keep adding new touches that give families something fresh to enjoy while preserving the traditions they have grown to love.”
Two new photo opportunities will greet visitors this year — a 9.5-foot star arch with LED twinkle lights and a 7.5-foot LED candy photo display featuring warm white lights and candy-cane-striped accents. Both additions were made possible through community donations and a LOST grant from the City of Fairfield. Last year, aging sidewalk candles were replaced with new lamppost displays.
The familiar caroler display will not be outside this season. One of the female carolers has again lost her head, and the display needs additional repairs. Rather than rush a repair, organizers opted to keep the carolers indoors while plans for future improvements are considered.
Santa will return to the Square beginning Black Friday, November 27th, through Saturday, December 19th, every Friday and Saturday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Families can stop by, share their Christmas wishes, take photos, and enjoy a little holiday magic.
As much as organizers enjoy adding new displays, maintaining a holiday tradition of this size takes ongoing community support. Next year, plans include replacing the large wreaths hanging from the downtown street poles, many of which are showing their age and are ready for a fresh look.
The annual Tree of Lights donation campaign helps fund ongoing maintenance, repairs, and new additions. Donations can be dropped off at the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce office. Contributions are tax-deductible through the Fairfield Area Development Foundation.
“This is truly a community tradition, and it takes a community to keep it going,” said Kayla Stanley, co-chair of the Christmas Committee. “Every donation helps us maintain the displays, make needed repairs, and invest in new additions. Whether someone has been enjoying the Square at Christmas for 50 years or is making their very first visit, we want that magic to be here for them.”
Organizers also thanked AERON Lifestyle Technology for helping fabricate part of a reindeer leg after one was stolen, and Everybody’s Whole Foods for serving as the presenting sponsor of the Holiday Lighting Ceremony.
For more information or to make a donation, contact the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce at 641-472-2111 or visit FairfieldIowa.com.
