Washington Commanders’ Chris Rodriguez Jr. to Light Middletown Christmas Tree at 13th Annual Celebration
he Town of Middletown is excited to announce that Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. will serve as the official tree lighter at the 13th Annual Middletown Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 4:45 PM. This year’s event will be held at its new location, the Middletown Veterans Memorial.
Rodriguez, currently ranked among the Top 15 NFL players in yards per carry, will join Santa Claus, local residents, and visitors to usher in the holiday season.
The Middletown tree lighting has grown into one of the region’s most cherished holiday gatherings. Families can look forward to:
- Free food for all attendees
- Children’s gifts to spread holiday joy
- Live festive music by Jimmy Lee Music
- A community bonfire to warm the evening
This year’s celebration is made possible through the generosity of FNB Bank, Inc. and Kollectible Kings, along with support 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
Town Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV shared his gratitude ahead of the event:
“We have so much to be thankful for here in Middletown. Every year, this celebration grows, not just in size, but in heart. The fact that families can come together and enjoy free food, free gifts for children, and a night of joy is truly a blessing. We are honored to welcome Chris Rodriguez Jr. and thrilled to continue a tradition that reflects everything good about our town. We are truly thankful for all of our sponsors and donors who make this event a reality.”