Step into Downtown Ocean Springs this holiday season, and you’ll find yourself in a whimsical wonderland. The iconic Washington Avenue, boasting 58 majestic oak trees, has undergone a mesmerizing transformation-each tree adorned with twinkling Christmas lights that illuminate the downtown area. The sight is so enchanting that the scene looks right out of a Hallmark movie.
This magical spectacle is the result of a collective effort driven by the city’s leaders and enthusiastic residents. Encouraging families to explore the festive downtown, city’s leaders and enthusiastic residents. Encouraging families to explore the festive downtown, city officials have invited locals and visitors alike to revel in the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses, savoring delectable meals at charmering restaurants, and relishing the breathtaking beauty of illuminating streets.
Reflecting on the transformation, Ward 2 Alderman Rickey Authement expressed his awe, stating, “It’s breathtaking. Friday night when we were trying to get everything finished, people were stopping, taking pictures. It was just unbelievable.” The response from the community has been nothing short of extraordinary, with individuals stopping in their tracks to capture the magic on camera.
Mayor Kenny Holloway shared the heartwarming story behind this magnificent display, recounting how the idea sprouted from a simple conversation among city hall colleagues. “It all happened with me and two of the ladies in City Hall walking down here saying ‘what if,’ ‘do you like it?’ and everybody loved it. So, we got on it and got it done.”
Looking ahead, the city is already planning to expand on this breathtaking display for the next holiday season. Learning from the experience, organizers intend to start the decorating process earlier, promising an even grander and more captivating spectacle for the community to enjoy.
This luminous transformation of Downtown Ocean Springs serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and creative vision. It has not only elevated the holiday spirit but has also set the stage for future festivities, hinting at even more magical moments awaiting both locals and visitors in the heart of this charming city. As the lights twinkle and the holiday cheer spreads, Downtown Ocean Springs has truly become a beacon of enchantment and joy during this festive season.