Celebrate Christmas Downtown and the Rutherford County Tree Lighting

This is the night downtown Murfreesboro officially turns on Christmas. It lands on the first Friday in December, on the Square in front of the historic Rutherford County Courthouse, and it is free.

The evening builds toward one moment: Santa arrives on stage and throws the switch on the county Christmas tree. Before that there are stage performances from local dance and arts groups. Afterward, from about 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., performances continue while activities carry on around the courthouse, including carriage rides.

A 6 p.m. start makes this workable even on a school night, and the Square is compact enough that you are never far from the car or a warm restaurant. Dress for standing still outdoors in December – it is colder than the forecast suggests once you stop moving.

When: Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 p.m.
Where: Public Square, downtown Murfreesboro
Cost: Free