The City of Summerville is inviting families to kick off the holiday season tonight (Thursday, December 4, 2025) with Christmas in the Park at J.R. “Dick” Dowdy Park from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The annual event brings the community together for an evening filled with Christmas cheer, including the Lighting of the Tree, visits with Santa, free miniature trackless train rides, live performances, vendors, a bonfire, a Couey House Open House, and free refreshments.

A special spotlight tonight will be on young holiday helpers as the city hosts the Best Dressed Elf Contest for elementary-age students and younger. Registration for the contest will be held from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. beside the small gazebo, with judging set for 6:45 p.m. Organizers say the winning elf will have the honor of lighting the official Christmas tree at 7:00 p.m., making it a memorable moment for kids and families.

Adults and older participants will also have a chance to show off their holiday spirit during the Ugly Sweater Contest, scheduled for 7:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 7:15 p.m. The ugliest sweater will take home a prize, and event information lists a $50 first-place prize.

As for the weather, expect a cold but manageable evening in Chattooga County, with temperatures during the event likely in the upper 30s to around 40 degrees. The good news for families planning to be outside is that rain is expected to return late Thursday night, but should hold off during the event, allowing most activities to wrap up before wetter conditions move back in.