Licking County Courthouse Lighting

The Licking County community is invited to attend the 77th Annual Licking County Courthouse Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 28, beginning at 6:15 p.m. on the Courthouse Square in downtown Newark, Ohio. The traditional “night after Thanksgiving” program will feature a holiday music sing-along, the
excitement of Santa’s arrival, and the lighting of Licking County’s beloved landmark. A large crowd is expected, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking. Holiday celebrants are invited to head downtown early to enjoy the Canal Market District (CMD) before the evening festivities at Courthouse Square. CMD will host its annual Holiday Bazaar Market from 3 to 6:30 p.m., featuring holiday décor, 40 local vendors, crafts, and food trucks at its outdoor pavilion just south of the Square between Canal and Market streets. Don’t miss CMD’s beautifully decorated Christmas tree—perfect for a family photo op! Festivities at the Courthouse begin at 6:15 p.m. with master of ceremonies Pat Jeffries.  The Newark Fire Department will assist with Santa’s grand arrival downtown, anticipated just before 7 p.m. The Jolly Old Elf will extend his best wishes to the community and, with the help of the children, will magically light the colorful Courthouse decorations to officially begin the
Christmas season in Licking County. The Elves in Action will be downtown on the Square that evening to kick off their annual holiday food drive. Volunteers will be present each evening until Christmas. All food collected will be donated to and distributed by the Food Pantry Network of Licking County.