West Union Lights Up, Markets and Music Kick Off Holiday Season

On December 3, West Union residents gathered for a daylong sequence of holiday events that culminated in the annual Lions Clubs of Adams County tree lighting on the courthouse square. The program began at the Adams County Training Center with the Small Business Saturday Makers Market, hosted by the Adams County Chamber of Commerce from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dozens of local makers and small businesses offered handmade goods and holiday items, and the first fifty shoppers received free Shop Small tote bags.

Local culture and live performance were part of the afternoon. Around 3 p.m. singer Carleigh Francis performed an acoustic set of Christmas favorites at the market, providing a soundtrack to the downtown bustle. By 5 p.m. The National Bank of Adams County hosted Santa’s Workshop, where children met Santa, made crafts, and took part in seasonal activities run by bank volunteers.

North Market Street filled with decorated vehicles and displays for Trunkin Around the Christmas Tree, an event that drew participation from businesses, churches, schools, clubs, and individuals. Horse and carriage rides began on Courthouse Square at 5:30 p.m., offering families a traditional holiday experience before the formal ceremony.

The tree lighting at 6 p.m. brought together Lions Club members, community leaders, sponsors, and residents. Gary McClellan and Bonnie Harover were recognized as this year’s Grand Illuminators for their contributions to the community. Immediately following the lighting, the Liberty Band performed a Christmas concert on the square while the Adams County for Christian Value organization provided hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, and brownies near the Old Wayside Inn.

The day demonstrated the economic and social value of coordinated community events. Markets and performances promoted local commerce and gave small businesses direct access to holiday shoppers. Volunteer engagement and sponsorships made the program possible, highlighting how civic groups and private entities together sustain public traditions. For local officials, the event underscores priorities for downtown management including support for small business promotion, accessible public spaces, parking and crowd management, and ongoing collaboration with nonprofit partners. Those institutional choices will influence how effectively West Union preserves downtown vibrancy and translates seasonal goodwill into sustained civic and economic participation.