Fircrest is a town of roughly 7,000 residents surrounded on three sides by Tacoma and on the other by University Place. Conceived as a subdivision in 1907, the town has grown from it's original 300 residents. I'd never attended a tree lighting ceremony before but because Fircrest is only 10 minutes from home and Tom's Dickens Carolers quartet was singing, I decided to go. Not sure of exactly what to expect, I arrived early and there were only a few people in the park, huddled in the cold and dark. A little reminiscent of an Easter Vigil service. The Christmas music playing let me know that I was in the right place. Soon quite a crowd had assembled in the dark looking up and waiting. The Carolers began to sing.
Lo, how a rose e'er blooming. (in a bed surrounding the flagpole.) Anticipation filled the air as the Mayor addressed the crowd, welcomed everyone and praised the recent triumph of the local swim team. The fire and rescue chaplain led the crowd in a prayer after which the assembly joined the carolers in singing the national anthem.
A child led a countdown and at zero, not only the tree but many trees and shrubs in the park were lit. "The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it."
The carolers began singing "Here Comes Santa Claus" and in the distance sirens blared and lights flashed as police cars and fire engines driven by reindeer, snowmen, and other interesting characters approached.
They were escorting a special guest.
The vehicles led the crowd to a recreational building near the park where hot cocoa was served, the carolers continued to perform and pose for pictures with kids. Cheerleaders from one of the schools performed and folks were thrilled.
It felt like something out of one of those Hallmark Christmas movies set in a sweet little town. What a nice tradition.
Maybe next year I'll check out Tacoma's tree lighting and see how it compares.
Do you/have you ever attended a tree lighting?
