Gadsden highlights expanded holiday attractions, says city now has tallest Christmas tree in Alabama

Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford used his mayor's minute to preview expanded holiday attractions and say the city is promoting a new landmark to attract visitors.

"We've got the tallest Christmas tree in Alabama," Ford said, adding that the state tourism department had notified the city. He said the city is advertising the tree to bring more tourists to Gadsden.

Ford described multiple additions and improvements at The Falls and downtown: an observation deck to host events without closing the Broad Street Bridge, repairs to the upper parking area and turf handled by in-house crews, a large ice-skating rink and bumper-boat attractions. He said the rink is among the largest in the state and that bumper-boat sessions were sold out on opening night.

The mayor urged residents to check the AMP and City of Gadsden websites for schedules and noted programming will include live music, Santa and the Grinch, food trucks and family amenities such as fireplaces and rocking chairs. He said the city purchased the rink and bumper boats and expects those purchases to be paid off "either this year or next year" through sponsorships and ticket revenue.

Ford encouraged residents to attend Christmas on Coosa (also referenced in the mayor's remarks as "Christmas on Macusa") and the Christmas parade, where the city will award cash prizes for the first, second and third best floats. He named commentators for the parade as Kay Moore with Downtown Gadsden Inc. and Mickey Ferguson of Fox6 Birmingham and invited residents to sign up online or through Parks & Recreation staff (Dorel Richardson).

Ford closed the segment by thanking employees for their work on the events and encouraging residents to enjoy the holiday activities.