Downtown Johnson City is glowing again as Candyland Christmas returns for another season, transforming the city’s core into a festive corridor filled with more than 180 decorated Christmas trees. The monthlong event runs from Nov. 29 through Jan. 4, spanning Founders Park and King Commons, Majestic Park and Main Street.
What began as a pandemic-era solution has since become one of Johnson City’s most recognizable holiday traditions. Candyland Christmas first emerged in 2020, when the annual Christmas parade was canceled, and city leaders sought a safe way for residents to celebrate together. Local businesses, nonprofits and organizations stepped in to decorate trees throughout downtown, creating an outdoor attraction that quickly took root.
Johnson City Commissioner and ETSU Alumni Executive Director Whitney Goetz said the event’s growth reflects the community’s strong embrace.
“It started in one small area of downtown and has now spread throughout multiple parks,” Goetz said. “Candyland Christmas has become part of so many families’ traditions. People make a night of it; shopping downtown, grabbing dinner and walking through the parks to see all the trees.”
This year’s display features contributions from several ETSU groups, including the ETSU Alumni Association’s tree (#65), which previously won second place in the community vote.
For Goetz, Candyland Christmas adds a spark to downtown life.
“One of my favorite parts of working downtown is driving by once it gets dark,” she said. “You can feel the energy, and it’s wonderful seeing how creative our local businesses and organizations get.”
The celebration opened with the Grand Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 29 and will remain free and open to the public through early January. Organizers hope visitors will take advantage of the walkable layout and experience the event as part of their holiday traditions.
Community members can vote online for their favorite, including ETSU’s entries, throughout the season.
With its growing footprint and strong community involvement, Candyland Christmas has become a hallmark of the season in Johnson City, one that continues to bring residents, visitors and local organizations together.
For more information, visit downtownjctn.com/candyland.
