Reflections on Christmas in Ashland, featuring Mayor Matt Miller ‘99
By Lauren Gulden, a senior journalism digital media major and creative writing minor
One of the first decisions Matt Miller ‘99 made when he was elected and sworn in as mayor of the City of Ashland was to purchase an official Christmas tree for the city. With some help from local donors, Ashland’s one and only 40-foot majestic pine was put in place in 2018. This was just the start for the new-found Christmas joy that would soon fill Ashland.
One of Miller’s primary focuses as mayor is to make Ashland one of the most livable cities around.
“I think the way you do that is by creating an environment that is clean, that is safe, that is affordable, that is fun – some place where there’s always something to do and something to look forward to,” said Miller, who graduated from Ashland University as a political science major.
In 2018, the tree was put up for the first time, dazzling with more than 15,000 string lights. It sits annually on Corner Park. In its first year, a large crowd of Ashland residents gathered near the tree to watch the lighting ceremony. As excitement grew, the event continued on and concluded with overhead fireworks.
Miller said, “After that, we have sought to make it better every year.”
Residents now also look forward to the Ashland Christmas Parade, of which AU was a presenting sponsor this year, which has seen crowds of more than 22,000 people. The parade shows off various local organizations and businesses in a jolly spectacle, capped by the tree-lighting ceremony at Corner Park.
After notable excitement for these events, Miller put thought into adding more holiday operations in town. Strands of greenery appeared downtown (paying homage to historic Downtown Ashland), a nativity scene was placed at the edge of downtown (by Dairy Queen) and lit Christmas trees can be found at all city of Ashland entry ways.
And, memorably, the world’s largest display of metal Christmas structures can be found at Freer Field under the festive title, “Candy Cane Lane,” for its third year. After breaking the record last year, Miller said, “More than 40 additional trees were added, more than 400 additional lit candy canes, a variety of new displays were set up, and a number of new features.”
One new addition to the town this season is a drive-through light display located at the Ashland County Fairgrounds. This display’s lights are purchased by local businesses or individuals.
“With all those many activities and features, we believe we should earn the designation of one of the most Christmassy towns in America,” Miller said.
He said, even without the title, we know we have one of the most festive areas right in our backyard.
Not only just in town, Ashland University’s campus has a noticeably different feel during the holiday months. Buildings are decorated, snow covers trails through the quad and white elephants are seemingly in the room.
Miller heard feedback, learning that students spend more time out in town during these days. They told him they drive through downtown during December to get a look at all the decorations.
Christmas music is also playing through speakers all throughout downtown for the full effect of making spirits bright.
“It wasn’t long ago the city of Ashland didn't have any of these wonderful Christmas decorations that we all enjoy today,” said Miller. “Not only have they served to lift the spirits of our own people, who call Ashland home, but they are attracting outside visitors all across the state and region. That pays off for all of us.”
