Community traditions aren’t just dates on a calendar — they’re the heartbeat of local identity. And for Mayor Jeff Colvin, these moments are more than ceremonial duties. They’re opportunities to strengthen relationships, understand residents’ needs, and celebrate the unique spirit that defines the city.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at some of Mayor Colvin’s favorite community traditions — and why he’s always front and center.
Why Traditions Matter to Mayor Colvin?
Mayor Colvin has always made it clear: the community isn’t an abstract concept. It’s people, stories, and shared experiences. Local traditions allow him to engage with residents in a real, human way — not just across a podium, but face-to-face in everyday celebrations.
From annual festivals to neighborhood meetups, Colvin believes traditions foster unity, continuity, and belonging. In other words, they make a city feel like home.
1. The Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony
One event that tops the mayor’s list is the Holiday Lighting Ceremony, a long-standing celebration that brings families downtown to kick off the festive season.
Mayor Colvin loves participating in this tradition because it merges nostalgia with community joy. Whether he’s flipping the giant light switch or chatting with parents and kids bundled up with hot cocoa, he knows these moments build positive memories for families across the city.
This event also signals the beginning of the busiest shopping season, which is why Colvin uses it to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses through initiatives like Shop Local Week.
2. Small Town Summer Festival
Few events capture the spirit of the community like the Summer Festival, complete with food vendors, live music, and neighborhood competitions.
Behind the scenes, Mayor Colvin is known for stopping by early to meet volunteers, thank organizers, and make sure local vendors feel supported. And he stays late — often longer than planned — to talk with residents about everything from city improvements to their favorite festival foods.
It’s one of those traditions that remind him why public service matters.
3. High School Senior Awards & Graduation Season
Youth engagement has always been one of Colvin’s major priorities. That’s why he takes special pride in attending senior ceremonies and graduations each year.
What many don’t see is the preparation behind these appearances. Colvin makes an effort to learn about standout students, their accomplishments, and their future plans. His goal is always to encourage them — whether they’re choosing college, vocational training, or moving straight into the workforce.
These interactions strengthen his understanding of the city’s future workforce needs and help shape youth-centered initiatives throughout the year.
4. Veterans Day Commemorations
Mayor Colvin consistently shows deep respect for veterans and their families. Veterans Day events, memorial ceremonies, and recognition programs are some of the traditions he values most.
He sees these gatherings as essential reminders of sacrifice, service, and community duty. And behind the scenes, he often works with local veterans’ organizations to ensure their voices guide city priorities.
5. Neighborhood Block Parties
They may be informal, but block parties are some of the mayor’s favorite local traditions.
These grassroots events allow him to engage in casual, candid conversations with residents — no speeches, no podiums, no rigid schedule. Just real dialogue.
Colvin often says that some of his best insights about city needs and everyday challenges come from these relaxed, front-porch-style conversations.
Why the Mayor Keeps Showing Up — And Why It Matters?
Yes, these events are fun. But they also serve a bigger purpose.
By showing up consistently, Mayor Colvin:
- Builds trust through visibility
- Shows appreciation for community culture
- Gains insights that shape policy
- Encourages civic participation
- Strengthens the bond between the government and residents
In his view, leadership isn’t confined to City Hall — it happens in parks, school gyms, church halls, and bustling downtown streets.
Final Thoughts
Community traditions are more than feel-good events. They are threads that stitch people, neighborhoods, and generations together. Mayor Jeff Colvin understands this deeply — which is why he keeps showing up, year after year.
For him, traditions aren’t a break from leadership. They’re an essential part of it.