City of Talladega Blog

(Talladega, AL) Christmas on the Square 2024: A Dickens Christmas in Talladega attracted thousands of residents and visitors who came to experience exciting old and new COTS traditions.

"Experiencing my first Christmas on the Square in Talladega left me inspired and impressed by how much our community can accomplish when we all work together," said City Manager Derrick Swanson. "This event was a great success thanks to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, staff and others who each made unique and vital contributions."

City of Talladega Public Information Officer Mary Sood, who chairs the Christmas on the Square Committee, said, "Every year, there is something unique and exciting at Christmas on the Square. This year's theme, A Dickens Christmas in Talladega, inspired two new additions to our celebration -- the Afternoon of Praise carolers decked out in 1800s apparel and the exquisite cocoa stand constructed by Talladega High School students and decorated by Tena Turner of T.B. Turner Interior Design."

"The turnout on Saturday was phenomenal. The skating rink, Santa's Worksop, Santa photos, movies at the Ritz Theatre, vendors and food trucks all attracted a large crowd. The colorful new holiday train and the bungee jump for children of all ages were also huge hits. Even on Sunday, when it rained, the turnout was good considering the conditions," Sood said.

One Facebook message read: "We come every year from Columbus, Ms and have the best time. Thank you for a great event. Merry Christmas."

A Facebook message from a vendor read: "C & C Kreations, LLC enjoyed participating for the first of hopefully many more times in Christmas on The Square. Had the feeling of a small home town festival but there were MANY activities for the kids & families to participate in. Can't wait until next year!"

The 2024 Christmas on the Square Title Sponsor was the Daily Home. Presenting Sponsors were Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind, First Bank of Alabama, Georgia Pacific, InSite Engineering and Talladega Superspeedway. Donors included Alabama Power, Citizens Baptist Medical Center, CMP Marksmanship Park, Coosa Valley Electric, Davis Builders, Inc., Ms. Evelyn McGehee, J W International LLC, Presbyterian Home for Children, RK Allen Oil, Rehab Select, Roger and Sheila Gentry, Talladega Insurance Agency, and TOP Trails OHV Park, LLC. Volunteers included Afternoon of Praise Christmas Carolers, Andy Kendricks, Mu Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Chamber Ambassadors, Greater Talladega/Lincoln/ Munford Area Chamber of Commerce, Historic Ritz Theatre, Hughlena and Shane Kay, 100 Men Support Group, Michelle Blankenship, Order of Eastern Star, SAFE/Family First, Suzanne Herring, Talladega Bottling Works, Talladega City Schools, Talladega Main Street, T.B. Turner Interior Design, and the United Way of North Talladega County.