About This Festival

Christmas on the Square in Lebanon, Adams County, Central region, is a festive holiday event held downtown that features a holiday market with local vendors, live reindeer, community performances, family holiday activities, a lighted Christmas parade, tree lighting, and Santa. The event is handicapped accessible and designed to create a magical holiday experience for families and the community.

The event typically takes place in early to mid-December, with the 2025 edition scheduled for December 6, 2025, from around 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. It is held primarily on the Public Square and Meridian Street in downtown Lebanon, where the holiday lights and decorations enhance the festive atmosphere.

Activities and highlights at Christmas on the Square include:

  • A holiday market showcasing local vendors selling crafts, gifts, and holiday treats.
  • Live reindeer as a special attraction for children and families.
  • Community performances featuring local musicians, choirs, or dance groups performing holiday songs and shows.
  • Family holiday activities, such as crafts for kids, play areas, and interactive experiences.
  • A tree decorating contest that fosters community participation and festive spirit.
  • An outdoor dance floor encouraging holiday dancing and fun.
  • A lighted Christmas parade that warms up the evening with floats, costumes, and festive displays.
  • The traditional tree lighting ceremony symbolizing the launch of the holiday season.
  • Visits and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.

The vibe of the event is warm, inviting, and community-oriented, emphasizing local business support and a family-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy an evening of entertainment, shopping, and holiday cheer amid beautiful decorations and joyful crowds.

History and founding details are less explicitly documented online, but the event is part of Lebanon’s annual tradition to celebrate the holidays downtown with engaging activities and community participation, supported by local organizations such as the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce and Heart of Lebanon.

A rough schedule for the event day (typical for similar years) might look like:

  • 4:00 pm: Event opens with market stalls and kids’ activities starting.
  • 5:00 pm: Community performances begin on the main stage or performance areas.
  • 6:00 pm: Lighted Christmas parade and Santa’s arrival.
  • 6:30 pm: Tree decorating contest culmination and tree lighting ceremony.
  • 7:00 pm: Event concludes or continues with informal dancing and socializing.

The event is free to attend and designed to create a memorable holiday atmosphere that draws families and visitors downtown to celebrate the season together.