OPERATION: SAVE CHRISTMAS ON THE SQUARE

Allow Christmas on the Square to be held on the Historic Downtown Moulton Courthouse lawn!

For years, Christmas on the Square (COTS) has been one of Lawrence County’s most cherished traditions. Rooted in unity and joy, the event celebrates Christmas as a season of hope — bringing families together in downtown Moulton for a tree trail with lights, music, and memories that have drawn visitors to town since 2019.

During courthouse renovations, the event was temporarily moved to the Lions Club Fairgrounds. The COTS committee is deeply grateful for their hospitality, but the move led to lower attendance and a sense that the “heart” of the event had been lost away from the square.

This year, with the courthouse nearing completion, the committee hoped to return to the lawn. However, at a recent commission meeting, concerns over the newly installed sod and liability issues led to denial of the request. Contractors noted that the lawn was finished a year behind schedule and suggested Limestone Building Group bear responsibility if damages occurred.

The decision carries added weight given the event’s economic and cultural value. In its first year alone, COTS generated $1.8–$2 million in sales and nearly $100,000 in tax revenue.

As an alternative, the City of Moulton and Mayor Weatherwax have offered the newly expanded Parks & Recreation fields. The committee is grateful for the support but remains clear: the event belongs on the courthouse square, the community’s heart and longtime home to parades, concerts, and festivals.

That’s why the committee is launching Operation: Save Christmas on the Square — a community-wide effort to rally support, address concerns, and find solutions that would allow the event to return downtown.

The committee appreciates the ideas and outpouring of support but notes each solution requires creativity and manpower. With fewer than 10 active members, more volunteers are urgently needed for behind-the-scenes work like hauling trees, setting decorations, and building displays. Anyone willing to serve is invited to the committee meeting on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Lions Club.

Next steps for the community:

• Lawrence County Commission work session: October 7 at 4:00 p.m.
• Commission meeting with public comments: October 10 at 9:00 a.m.

The committee invites residents to attend and share their voices in support of this treasured tradition.

More than lights and decorations, this event is about community, heritage, and the people of Lawrence County. With the continued support of volunteers, county and city leadership, and the community, the magic of Christmas on the Square can and will endure for generations to come.