‘Symbol of community’ to shine again

The massive star that’s become a Homewood icon will be lit again over 18th Street on Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. It’s a tradition that’s been going on for more than 60 years and the festivities will last until 7 p.m. and include cookies, hot chocolate, music and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus.

Local businesses will offer holiday wares, and Meredith Drennan, executive director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, encouraged folks to come early, shop and enjoy refreshments before the celebration starts. 

Students from Homewood’s elementary schools will perform during the event, and Mayor Scott McBrayer will ceremonially light the star.

“It is a symbol of our community — it’s become iconic for Homewood,” Drennan said. Made by Douglass W. McConnell, the star boasts roughly 1,200 lights and takes a week to prepare for the lighting ceremony. 

“The celebration is a tradition for our community,” Drennan said. And this year, she added, Homewood can even promise snow — fake snow, at least.