The holiday season in Cumberland, Maryland, officially kicked off with the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the magic of the season. This year’s centerpiece, a stunning 20-year-old Concolor Fir, has a story as special as the occasion itself.
The tree, donated by Tom and Carolyn Mathews, comes from a place deeply rooted in local tradition and family memories—the Intown Tree Farm. Many in Cumberland fondly recall selecting their Christmas trees from the Mathews’ family lot on Frederick Street during the 1990s and early 2000s. For 17 years, the Mathews family provided holiday joy through their tree business, with many of the trees originating from their property on Bedford Street. This year’s Christmas tree is particularly meaningful, as it was planted in 2005 by Allegany High School’s AP Environmental Science students, including the Mathews’ daughters, Melanie and Becky.
The Concolor Fir, known for its soft blue-green color and delightful citrus scent, has grown for two decades on the Mathews property. Over the years, it has been a silent observer of the natural world—hosting nesting birds, resting fawns, and even witnessing the passage of coyotes. Now, it takes center stage in downtown Cumberland, adorned with sparkling lights and decorations thanks to the dedicated efforts of the City’s employees.
The Mathews family—including seven of Tom and Carolyn’s nine grandchildren—were present for the ceremony to help “flip the switch” and light up the tree. Melanie and Dave Mills, along with their children Brooklyn, Henry, and Griffin, and Becky and Bobby Bonser, with their children Jonah, Teagan, Isaac, and Tessa, represented the family. Though Brian Mathews, an active military member, couldn’t attend, he and his wife Kristin plan to visit the decorated tree in early December with their children Charlotte and Jack.
Cumberland’s tradition of seeking tree donations from the community makes this celebration even more special. Each year, a generous donor steps forward to provide a tree that becomes a beacon of holiday spirit for residents and visitors alike. The lighting ceremony not only showcases the beauty of the tree but also highlights the sense of togetherness and pride that defines the Cumberland community.
As the lights flickered on and the crowd cheered, it was clear that this year’s tree lighting was more than just an event—it was a moment of joy, gratitude, and connection. Thanks to the Mathews family’s generosity and the City’s hard work, the 2024 Christmas tree stands as a symbol of holiday cheer and community spirit, inviting everyone to gather and celebrate the season in downtown Cumberland.