I realize that cities and towns the world over usher in the last weeks before Christmas with a ceremony that often includes the lighting of a tree.
And it’s no different in Lunenburg.
Or maybe it is.
As the self-proclaimed “Balsam Fir Capital of the World”, Lunenburg County takes Christmas trees very seriously. It follows that the town would sport a real beauty. And everyone wants in on the action. So a lovely “festival of trees” cluster around the official tree – individuals, families, and organizations sponsor the trees. There must be a hundred trees there this year (I didn’t count them).
Several hundred people gathered last night to witness the lighting of these trees. There was such a lovely feeling in the group.
People reunited with old friends, made new ones, enjoyed treats from the outdoor market and sang carols. I was lucky enough to stand next to a friend and former music teacher who has the most beautiful soprano voice. (Naturally, I lip-synced).
Children laughed and ran round with their friends – dogs barked. It was a joyful scene.
Then. The moment came for the countdown to flicking the switch and light trees. A hush. 10, 9, 8 … 3, 2, 1!! A communal gasp! And the perfect finish as the Kinderchoir sang a German Carol.
And that, my friends, is a little bit of Lunenburg magic.
(Apologies for the poor photo quality – caught up in the moment)
Oh! Beautiful! We have a tree-lighting event here on Bainbridge Island, too. I went this year for the first time (lived here four) and it was wonderful. Just as you describe above…but only one tree.
You can’t beat a gathering of laughing children and twinkling lights!!
hlw
Oh so pretty. I never tire of trees lit up and all manner of other twinklers too thought here I have been quite aghast at the volume some people adorn their houses with – Im told one doesn’t want to be ‘that sort of neighbour’ which I have to say I rather understand!
Ha!! Yes! I hear ya! There is a massive difference between charming and ….. um … over the top. 😉
Normally lighting of a tree is just that – A tree. Wow! Lunenburg has a whole forest of them!! I’m sure it likes beautiful!
Truly the magic of the holiday season. 🙂 When we lived in Keene, on the other side of the state, they always had a special tree lighting ceremony that brought out the entire town. It was wonderful. 🙂
A special night .. How lovely 😃
How beautiful and a nice way to bring the community together!