DOWNTOWN BRISTOL RINGING IN THE HOLIDAYS WITH NEW “BRISTOL MERRY & BRIGHT” ILLUMINATED CUSTOM-BUILT TREE DISPLAYS

BRISTOL, Tennessee/Virginia (Wednesday, July 29, 2026) - Bristol has consistently distinguished itself through its unique identity, from sharing a downtown with two states and hosting NASCAR’s most popular races to being recognized as the Birthplace of Country Music. Without question, the community has earned a reputation for delivering unique, unforgettable experiences.

This holiday season, Downtown Bristol is taking that tradition to a whole new level.

Believe in Bristol and Explore Bristol are excited to introduce “Bristol Merry & Bright,” a new holiday display featuring custom-built illuminated trees that will transform Historic Downtown Bristol into a festive destination.

Rather than traditional live trees, the displays will feature professionally installed “flagpole light trees” designed and built by Big Tree & Company. The signature trees will anchor Anderson Park and Cumberland Square Park, while additional displays will be placed throughout the downtown district, creating a magical holiday experience for residents and visitors alike.

Maggie Elliott, Executive Director of Believe In Bristol, says this new approach is a wonderful opportunity to elevate the Bristol experience during the holidays.

“As our holiday traditions downtown continue to grow, we're always looking for ways to make the experience even more memorable for our community and visitors,” she said. “The new illuminated trees will create a beautiful, welcoming display that's more weather-resistant and sustainable, helping ensure visitors can enjoy the magic of the season throughout the holidays. We can't wait to see downtown Bristol shine again this Christmas."

Businesses, organizations, and community partners across the area will have the

opportunity to sponsor these unique light trees, spreading the holiday spirit throughout the community.

Anderson Park and Cumberland Square Park will also feature illuminated rope lighting along the sidewalks, creating inviting, well-lit pathways that encourage visitors to stroll, explore, and enjoy all that Historic Downtown Bristol offers during the holiday season. Bristol Tennessee Essential Services is the title sponsor of the Anderson Park display.

Matt Bolas, Executive Director of Explore Bristol, feels “Bristol Merry & Bright” will only add to what is already a festive holiday atmosphere.

“We’re really excited to see this new tree style in both Anderson and Cumberland parks, which complements not only Speedway In Lights but also our downtown decorations, such as the snowflakes on the light poles on State Street, the community Christmas Tree, and the 25-foot tree at the Downtown Center.”

“We’re really excited to see this new tree style in both Anderson and Cumberland parks, which not only complements the longstanding Speedway In Lights tradition at Bristol Motor Speedway but also our downtown decorations, including the snowflakes on the light poles on State Street, the community Christmas Tree, and the 25-foot tree at the Downtown Center.”

“Christmas is such a special time in Bristol, and the fact that we’re the only downtown anywhere where you can celebrate Christmas in two states at the same time makes “Bristol Merry & Bright” an even more exciting event for visitors to enjoy.”

The trees, which can be ordered now, will be available in three sizes: 9 feet ($200), 12 feet ($400), 20 feet ($1,000). Anyone purchasing a tree can:

• Choose the color(s) of the lights on their tree using RGBW, which allows for color customization. 

• Sponsors can choose one color, two colors, traditional white, or multi-colors, with many likely opting for their logo colors.

• Select one of three tree topper options – Star, Snowflake, or Ball

• Receive an in-ground sign located at the base of the tree that notes the business name with a QR code that directs to its website

• A business or individual can also “sponsor” a tree for a non-profit organization, local school, etc. as a “gift” to those organizations

To reserve your “Bristol Merry & Bright” Christmas Tree, visit ExploreBristol.com/Christmas, call 423-212-3637, or stop by the Explore Bristol Visitor Center located at 215 Volunteer Parkway, Bristol, Tenn. The deadline to purchase trees is Aug. 21. “Bristol Merry & Bright” begins Nov. 30, with the annual Winter Carnival and Christmas Tree Lighting.

Questions? Please email info@explorebristol.com or contact Hollie Moody at 423-212-3637 or Charlene Baker at 423-573-2201.