Marion’s Main Street glowed with holiday spirit as the town gathered for its annual Christmas Tree Lighting, made unforgettable this year by the presence of country music legend Jimmy Fortune.
The evening began with a scene straight out of a Christmas postcard. Chief Kevin Testerman escorted Fortune from his big red tour bus parked at the Lincoln Theatre, walking him up Main Street toward Town Hall. Residents gathered, watching as the beloved singer made his way to the heart of town, where a towering Christmas tree stood ready to be lit alongside “the big switch.”
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Mayor Avery Cornett welcomed Fortune warmly, presenting him with the Key to the Town in recognition of his musical legacy and Virginia roots. Before the switch was flipped, Fortune invited the crowd to join him in singing Silent Night. His voice—still as timeless and pure as when he first rose to fame with the Statler Brothers—carried through the crisp December air. Then, with one dramatic motion following a countdown, Fortune lit the tree, bathing Town Hall in a glow of twinkling lights and officially ushering in the Christmas season. Santa was also on hand for added Christmas spirit.
The celebration also featured a performance by children from Miss Sarah’s Ballet Studio, who danced gracefully on the steps of Town Hall. Their youthful energy added charm to the evening, while Ken Heath guided the program, ensuring every moment flowed seamlessly.
After the tree lighting, Fortune returned to the Lincoln Theatre for his highly anticipated 7 p.m. concert. The nearly sold-out show was a testament to his enduring popularity. Fortune, who became a household name in the 1980s when he joined the Statler Brothers, has built a remarkable solo career, and his voice remains as rich and resonant as ever. Fortune is a native of Nelson County, Virginia.
Fortune, who became a household name in the 1980s when he joined the Statler Brothers, has built a remarkable solo career, and his voice remains as rich and resonant as ever. Fortune is a native of Nelson County, Virginia.
The performance stretched over two hours, blending Fortune’s classics with seasonal favorites. Songs like It’s Christmas Time Again, Christmas Country Style, Silent Night, Flowers On The Wall, Elizabeth, Mary Did You Know, and Joy To The World filled the theatre, creating a mix of nostalgia and holiday cheer. Toward the end of the show, He performed a stunning version of O Holy Night.
Fortune’s band added depth to the evening, featuring standout performances from Jennifer Wrinkle, an independent artist from Beaumont, Texas, and Sarah Davison of High Road, a progressive bluegrass group. Their artistry, along with the rest of the ensemble, elevated the show into something truly special.
What sets Fortune’s concerts apart is not only the music, but the stories woven between songs. His shows are often laced with personal anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, giving audiences a glimpse into the man behind the voice. Deeply Christian in orientation, Fortune frequently shares gospel songs and his testimony of faith in Jesus Christ, adding a spiritual dimension that resonates powerfully with fans.
Fortune also spent time with fans both at the tree lighting and after the concert, signing autographs, posing for photos, and speaking personally with attendees. His warmth and humility left lasting impressions, ensuring that the evening was not only about music and lights, but also about connection and community.
From the glow of the Christmas tree to the harmonies inside the Lincoln Theatre, Marion celebrated more than just the season—it celebrated the joy of coming together. Jimmy Fortune’s presence brought a sense of magic to town, making this year’s Christmas Tree Lighting one that residents will cherish for years to come.
