The city of Rosemount has come together annually to light a Christmas tree for the past 25 years. Last year, city youth teamed up with the Rosemount Area Arts Council to build up the event, and it worked so well that this year, they've turned it into an all-day affair.
"It kind of unites the city together over a common event," said Jacob Alex, 17, a senior at Rosemount High School and a member of the Rosemount Youth Commission. "It's cool to see the mayor light the tree, and it's nice to see the kids' faces light up when they see Santa."
The tree lighting event takes place on Saturday at the Steeple Center.
Alex said about 80 people showed up last year, and planners expect even more at this year's event. "It's gotten a lot more support," he said. "It was very successful last year, and the word's gotten out."
"It's great for the youth to have their own event that they can really rally around," said Zack Eichten, 18, a Rosemount High senior who also serves on the Youth Commission.
Long tradition
Rosemount Area Arts Council Chairman John Loch helped start the inaugural tree lighting event many years ago in the plaza near the drugstore he owned. The event has moved around to various locations in the city throughout the years, and for the past few years it's been at the Steeple Center.
Last year, the group of 15 students on the youth commission got involved, and the students organized a performance by a chamber choir and a brass ensemble from the high school.
Youth commission members have to apply for positions and meet monthly throughout the year, said the commission's liaison, Emmy Foster. Throughout the year, they participate in youth summits and meet with city leaders to discuss issues. Foster, who also serves as Rosemount's assistant city administrator, said the city started the Youth Commission in 2009 as a way to help young people have a voice.
