Kinston moves Christmas tree lighting to courthouse steps on Nov. 14

Kinston’s annual Christmas tree lighting will move from Pearson Park to the steps of the Lenoir County Courthouse this year. Downtown Kinston Revitalization will hold the ceremony at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, with music, s’mores and free hot chocolate to follow at the park.

“The courthouse steps are just perfect,” Cathy Reese, DKR Christmas Chair, said in a video announcing the move. She said the ceremony will include choirs and remarks from elected officials. The courthouse and Queen Street will also be lit for the holidays.

The Saturday ceremony marks a change from past years, when Downtown Kinston Revitalization held its “Turn on the Holidays” celebration on a Saturday evening at Pearson Park.

After the courthouse ceremony, the celebration will continue at Pearson Park, 210 W. Gordon St. The park will have its own Christmas tree and lighted angel and deer displays. Santa will be in the park for photo opportunities.

“This year we’ll have 500 hot chocolates to give away,” Reese said. The Collective Church is providing the hot chocolate for the event.

This year’s Kinston Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5.

For more information call DKR at 252-525-6144.