KANNAPOLIS—What has only been a dream for many years to some in the city of Kannapolis came to life Friday night as 5,000 lights illuminated the city’s first Christmas tree.

The tree-lighting festivities centered around the 24-foot white spruce in the center of Funderburk Park, located in the Cannon Village between West Avenue and Main Street. Men, women and children of all ages gathered not only to witness the tree lighting, but to listen to Christmas carols, sing along and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Flutists, carolers and a minstrel provided music. Children ran around the tree giggling and playing. People waited for the perfect spot to snap a picture of the family in front of the tree.

Andrew Bridges of Concord and his 2-year-old son Aaron watched the tree lighting and waited for 4-year-old Alex’s pre-school class to sing the carol Oh Christmas Tree. The Bridges moved to the area from Canada about two years ago.

Mayor Ray Moss flipped the switch that lit up all of Funderburk Park.

The Beautification Commission dedicated the tree in memory of former member Randall Combs, a Kannapolis native and judge who died in August.

According to Jimmie Melton, chair of the commission, a tree-lighting ceremony had been a dream of the mayor, Phyllis Beaver, marketing director for Cannon Village, and other Kannapolis residents for some time. Since this summer the commission has wanted to do something in memory of Combs. And the two ideas seemed to mesh well together.

“An exemplary citizen of Kannapolis, Randall devoted his life to all things good...” Melton said in her dedication speech. “We honor the memory of Randal R. Combs whose life was lived with such brilliance, goodness and love that it will continue to shine on us for years ad years to come.”

She recognized Combs’ wife Donna and daughters Rebekah and Jessica who were in attendance.

Even with a few glitches typical of a first-time event, Melton said she was pleased with the overall outcome and plan to make it an annual event. “We were thrilled with the turnout,” Melton said.