HAMLET – Residents and visitors gathered in Main Street Park on Monday evening for Hamlet’s 39th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, a beloved tradition that marks the start of the holiday season.
The event began at 5:30 p.m. with a live nativity and a reading of the Christmas Story from the Bible. The Hamlet Senior Center’s Heavenly Choir performed, adding a festive soundtrack to the evening’s activities.
Immediately following the tree lighting, the Hamlet Historic Depot & Museums hosted the annual All Aboard the Hamlet Depot & Museums Polar Express Experience. Families received official Polar Express train tickets, and Conductor Sam punched each ticket before guests visited Santa and Mrs. Clause inside the depot to share their Christmas wishes. After meeting Santa, guests enjoyed the Polar Express movie in the depot’s passenger waiting area.
Outside, hot cocoa and cookies were provided by Hamlet Fire & Rescue and EMS, alongside a snow making machine for children to enjoy. Kids were encouraged to mail letters to Santa using the special Santa Certified Christmas Mailbox, with blank letters available at the depot entrance.
The evening offered a combination of tradition, community, and holiday cheer, giving attendees a memorable start to the Christmas season in Hamlet.