NFL’s Chris Rodriguez Jr. to Light Middletown Christmas Tree at 13th Annual Holiday Celebration

The Town of Middletown is getting ready to light up the season in a big way—and this year, they’re calling in a special guest from the NFL. Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. will lead the countdown and light the town’s official Christmas tree at the 13th Annual Middletown Tree Lighting Ceremony, taking place on Friday, November 28 at 4:45 p.m. at the Middletown Veterans Memorial.

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. joins the Town of Middletown to light the official Christmas tree at the 13th Annual Holiday Celebration on November 28, 2025. Rodriguez helped kick off the season with fans, families, and holiday cheer at the Middletown Veterans Memorial.

Rodriguez, who currently ranks in the Top 15 in the NFL for yards per carry, will be joined by Santa Claus, local families, and visitors from across the region for an evening full of tradition, music, and free holiday cheer.

“This celebration grows every year—not just in size, but in heart,” said Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV. “We are honored to welcome Chris Rodriguez Jr. and thrilled to continue a tradition that reflects everything good about our town.”

Christmas Tree Lighting 2025

The event has quickly become one of the most cherished holiday gatherings in the Shenandoah Valley. This year’s celebration features free food, children’s gifts, a bonfire, and live holiday music by local favorite Jimmy Lee Music.

A surprise special guest is also expected to make an appearance—but organizers say that name will be revealed during the event itself.

The celebration is being held at a new location this year: the Middletown Veterans Memorial, offering a scenic and meaningful backdrop for the holiday kickoff. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring blankets, coats, and plenty of holiday spirit as the community comes together under the lights.

Support from Local Businesses

This year’s tree lighting is made possible thanks to the generous support of the community. The event is sponsored by FNB Bank, Inc. and Kollectible Kings, with additional contributions from:

• Shaffer’s BBQ & Market
• 5-Star Executive Chauffeuring
• Daily Buzz Cafe
• Chick-fil-A (Pleasant Valley Road)
• Italian Touch (Middletown)
• Middletown Liberty
• McDonald’s
• Sheetz
• Wawa
• Blue Ridge Baking Company
• Stacie Athey

“This event shows what happens when a community comes together,” Harbaugh said. “Thanks to the generosity of our local sponsors, families will enjoy a night full of joy—with no cost at all. That’s something we can all be proud of.”

The Middletown Christmas Tree Lighting is free and open to all. Organizers expect hundreds to attend, as the event has become a holiday-season staple across the region.