Merry on the Square returns Nov. 21 with music, market and courthouse lighting

Merry on the Square & Courthouse Lighting Ceremony returns for its second year Saturday, Nov. 21, adding live music, a holiday market, food trucks and children’s activities around one of Kerrville’s favorite Christmas traditions.

The free event runs from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Kerr County Courthouse Square, 700 Main St. It is hosted by the Kerrville Christmas Lighting Corporation, an all-volunteer nonprofit, and presented by Security State Bank & Trust.

The city of Kerrville’s annual Holiday Lighted Parade begins at 6 p.m. and ends at the courthouse. Right after the parade, Santa Claus will make an appearance before the official lighting of the courthouse and the 50-foot Christmas tree.

The tree, which debuted last year, has nearly 37,000 warm white LED lights, and organizers say it is the tallest Christmas tree in the Hill Country. The courthouse will be professionally illuminated for the third straight year.

“We were so encouraged by the community’s response to Merry on the Square last year, and we’re excited to build on that this Christmas season,” said KCLC President George Eychner. “There’s just something about seeing the courthouse and Christmas tree light up that reminds us why we love calling Kerrville home.”

Music, shopping and food

New this year is a performance by Jase Martin & the Standing Peppers, a San Antonio-based band whose resume, according to KCLC, includes three Grammy nominations and touring with the Dixie Chicks. Ken Stoepel Ford is the entertainment sponsor, and Prime Metal Building Components is the stage sponsor.

A holiday market will feature local vendors selling handmade gifts, decorations, jewelry, artwork and baked goods. Four food trucks will be on hand: BBQue TEXAS, Mac N Wagon, The Cajun Cowboy and Texalicious.

For the kids

Children can ride the Dusty Trail Express train, play giant games hosted by Kerr Kids, and get free face painting and balloon art from Daisy Bee & Friends from 4 to 8 p.m.

Costumed characters will appear throughout the evening, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who, Buddy the Elf, Olaf, Elsa and Anna.

Organizers encourage families to arrive early for the activities and stay through the parade and lighting. Entertainment, shopping and food will continue until 9 p.m.

Sponsors and supporters

Additional sponsors include Holly Jolly sponsors HCTC, Jersey Mike’s, Cecil Atkission Motors and Kerr County Abstract & Title Co., and Jingle Bell sponsors The Bank & Trust, Guadalupe Bank, McDonald Home Inspections and Simply Architecture.

Jam Broadcasting is providing sound and audiovisual support, the Salvation Army is providing screens, and KPUB is helping with power and with assembling the courthouse tree and downtown street ornaments.

More information is available at kerrvillechristmaslighting.com.