Hatley Memorial Tree Lighting Celebration on Dec. 2, 2025, 6 p.m.

Join us for an evening of holiday cheer at the Hatley Memorial Tree Lighting in downtown Valdese! Enjoy carols performed by the students of Valdese Elementary, hot chocolate, and an appearance by Jolly Ol' St. Nick!

Annually the Town of Valdese hosts a special tree-lighting celebration in December to celebrate the Christmas season. Children in the Valdese community were always a special priority for Jim Hatley, former mayor of the Town of Valdese, and the Valdese Town Council chose to dedicate the Town Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration in his honor. “Each year, this event creates special memories for Valdese children as well as their parents. I always remember Mayor Hatley sharing how important it was to him for the young community to be involved in everything Valdese,” states Morrissa Angi, Community Affairs Director for the Town of Valdese. “This event is very special. There is nothing like seeing all the children’s faces light up when they see Santa and the lighting of the Christmas tree. This is why Town Council felt it would be the perfect way to honor former Mayor Hatley,” Angi continues.

The event will continue with a special music performance by the Valdese Elementary School Students led by music teacher, Brittany Schafer. Free hot chocolate will be available for attendees. A rain date is tentatively scheduled for Friday, December 6th, 2024.

The Town of Valdese wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday! For further information regarding events in Valdese, go to visitvaldese.com, or call 828-879-2129.