Staff Report
alexandrianews.org
Holiday decorations glitter along King Street. (Photo: Regan Kireilis)
For more than three decades, the lighting of the holiday tree at Market Square has symbolized the beginning of the winter holiday season in Alexandria. Last Friday night, Mayor Bill Euille flipped a switch and the lights came on.
The 22-year-old Norway Spruce stands 33 feet tall and is decorated with more than 2500 lights. Bruce and Lora Ker of Woodbridge donated the tree.
Mayor Euille thanks members of the Ker family who kindly donated the Holiday Tree to the City. (Photo: Regan Kireilis)
“The Kers have been residents of Woodbridge for more than 20 years and watched the tree grow from 15 inches to its height at cutting,” said Jack Browand, a spokesperson for the Alexandria Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Activities. “They were no longer able to place lights on the tree and wanted to donate it to the City for the greater community to enjoy. The tree outgrew the space in the yard.”
Holiday lights also adorn King Street in Old Town, a project that is near and dear to Councilwoman Del Pepper’s heart. “I am thrilled to see them sparkling,” she said.
Alexandria’s holiday season will continue this week with the Scottish Christmas Walk and will end on New Year’s Eve with First Night Alexandria. There is something for everyone.
Alexandria's Holiday Tree was the backdrop for the annual production. (Photo: Regan Kireilis)
Performers from the Metropolitan Fine Arts Center present "Santa's Frosty Follies". (Photo: Regan Kireilis)
Ben Horowitz, 5 and borther, Noah, 3, jingle Santa's bells at the 2009 City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony. (Photo: Regan Kireilis)
