November 28, 2022 4:00 a.m.

The community celebrated the start of the holiday season with the 39th annual lighting of the Douglas County Christmas Tree on Sunday night.

Presented as a collaborative effort by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, the City of Roseburg, and First Christian Church, the event took place in front of the courthouse.

Hundreds began to gather as the rain started shortly after 5:00 p.m. Conditions moderated just in time for the event at 6:00 p.m. A nativity scene was located across the street at First Christian Church where actors played the parts of Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus, accompanied by a stable and a camel. Hot chocolate and treats were offered by the church and by the Miss Douglas County Scholarship program.

The evening was emceed by Roseburg Mayor Larry Rich who welcomed Santa Claus to the county. Santa was escorted to the ceremony by Roseburg Police and a City of Roseburg Fire truck:

Former county staff person Debby Mendenhall talked about her late son Jason, who helped light the county tree at the very first event in 1993. Then Mendenhall, County Commissioner Tom Kress and Santa led the crowd in a countdown before the tree was lighted:

Seasonal music was provided by the honor choir of Geneva Academy. Actors from Occasionally Yours Party Rentals portrayed characters from the Disney movie “Frozen” and presented a few songs. The evening wrapped up as Santa and Mrs. Claus posed for photographs with children eager to greet them.

Pictures from the event are posted at www.541radio.com and on the KQEN Facebook page. The entire ceremony is archived on video on the Douglas County Government Facebook page.