Marion County Sheriff Kevin Cripps and County Board Chair Debbie Smith ‘flipped’ a large switch to turn on the courthouse square’s new lighted Christmas Display at six Friday night.
The project was made possible by funding from the Salem Tourism Commission which receives money every time someone stays in a Salem motel.
Chair Leon Chapman was pleased with the turnout on the bitter cold night.
“We had a tremendous crowd. A lot of people stayed in their cars, a lot of people were on the corner [Main and Broadway], and we had a great crowd across the street enjoying the hot chocolate, cookies, and music.”
Chapman was pleased with what he saw when the switch was flipped.
“It came out out really nice. I would not come and see it until the lights were on. I was very impressed with it and anxious to see what we can add to it next year.”
The display includes a large lighted Santa and carriage, flashing reindeer, and a large arch where penguins climb electronically.
Cripps says everyone is welcome to sit in Santa’s sleigh for photos.
The unveiling of the display comes the weekend before Salem’s many Christmas activities including the lighting of the city Christmas tree at Sweney Corner with Santa’s arrival next Saturday evening. There will be a carnival for the kids Friday night at the Salem Community Activity Center. The Salem Band and Choir will perform on both Friday and Sunday at the Salem Community Theatre. Watch for further details on next weekend’s lineup of activities.
A look at the new Christmas Display and lighting event in photos by Bruce Kropp.
The new lighted Santa with candy canes on the courthouse lawn.
The reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh.
A penguin runs down the side of an igloo in one of the new courthouse lawn displays.
Santa’s carriage is available for anyone to sit and be photographed.
More characters in the new courthouse square display.
Santa visits the courthouse lighting and poses with Toby the miniature horse and Jackie West.
And the band played for those enjoying refreshments during the courthouse lighting.
