Courthouse Lighting and Newton Chamber of Commerce's Holiday Festival
Come one; come all! Newton will celebrate the season with a special Holiday Festival in conjunction with the Lighting of the Jasper County Courthouse the evening of Friday, November 27, 2015. Festivities begin at 5pm.
A few of the activities that evening include:
- Community Countdown and Lighting of the Courthouse at 6pm, South East side of the square
- Santa’s Arrival downtown at 6:15pm - transported by the Newton Fire Department (Santa will be located on the second floor of the Courthouse)
- Jasper County 4H Festival of Trees - inside the Jasper County Courthouse
- Popcorn by US Bank
- Cider by Community Heights Alliance Church
- Hot Cocoa by Haven Vineyard Church
- Cookies by Bernie Sanders for President supporters
- Newton Chamber Chili Cook-Off, Judging and Sampling
- Carolers by multi-congregational church members on the North West side of the Courthouse
- Ice Princess and Snowman appearances for the kids
- Plume Hill Carriage Rides for $3.00 per person
- LED and non LED Lighted Trees watt comparison display and decorations at the Chamber office, courtesy of Hometown Rewards
- Historic Holidays in Newton display in the former Pappy’s window, courtesy of the Jasper County Historical Museum
- Glowing novelties by May’s Snow & Glow available for purchase
- Jamie Grout, DJ Entertainment & Lighting Countdown
- Lighted window displays - Judging of Windows by the Newton Chamber Ambassadors
In light of previous years’ challenges with weather, a lack of float entries and volunteers, the Newton Chamber of Commerce decided to not hold a parade in 2015. Businesses all across town are encouraged to decorate and light their windows in preparation for the annual Lighting of the Jasper County Courthouse and the season. Upon the countdown of the Courthouse lighting, storefronts all around the square are asked to light up their windows in commemoration of this long-time tradition. Store owners who are interested in acquiring energy efficient lighting may reach out to the Newton Chamber of Commerce at 792-5545 for special discounted LED lighting options made available by Hometown Rewards.
Many local businesses, organizations and community members worked together to bring the festival to Newton. Special thanks to Nathan Van Maanen and the Van Maanen Electric crews for their time and generosity toward the Courthouse decoration and lighting. We appreciate their contributions. The committee and these community members are donating their time and effort to make the sights, sounds and ambience of the season come alive this evening. There is something for everyone at this event!
