Tree lighting signals Christmas season in Corrales

CORRALES — At the end of Small Business Saturday in Corrales, a small group gathered for a tree lighting at Village Hall.

The group was a mix of village employees and officials. Leading the group was Corrales Mainstreet’s Vice President Jim Kruger.

“This is the second year in a row that we’ve done this. It’s a wonderful way to start the season,” he said.

As the colorful tree lit up, the small group applauded.

The short but sweet tree lighting included treats for the kids, gift baskets for the winning and caroling.

Though Mayor James Fahey could not be at the event, village Councilor Zach Burkett was. He and the village staff led the group in each Christmas song. Some familiar favorites were “Oh Christmas Tree” and “Jingle Bells.”

Prior to the festive illumination, businesses everywhere in Corrales participated in Small Business Saturday.

“There was a decent crowd all day. I’d say it went well,” Burkett said.

The Village Mercantile was a participant, offering deals on products with some opportunities to get free product.

Small Business Saturday is a push from tax and revenue for people to use tax-free weekend to buy local products.

“The New Mexico Departments of Economic Development, Tourism, and Taxation and Revenue encourage New Mexicans and visitors to shop at small businesses during the holiday season. During the holiday giving season, it’s important to shop and dine at local small businesses first to support business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, growers and makers who are growing their businesses and the local economy,” the New Mexico Tax and Revenue site states.

The tree lighting rewarded people for buying local, too. Those with a receipt from buying local on Small Business Saturday could enter to win a holiday basket. Three people went home happy, and the lit tree was a signal that Christmas is just around the corner.