subject: Set The Christmas Season Alight At Bostons Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony [print this page] Continuing a tradition that dates back nearly 40 years, the Boston Tree Lighting Ceremony marks the official beginning of the Christmas season for all its citizens and the multitudes that flock to the 'shining city on a hill' to witness this special occasion. This year as in the 37 years the preceded it, the ceremony is set to take place amid pomp and pageantry with local and international celebrities and most of Boston city in attendance. Held in Faneuil Hall Marketplace each year the seasonal event also commemorates a unique incident in the history of Boston that connects it with the people of Nova Scotia.
It is said that the Halifax Explosion in 1917 was a hallmark event that changed a nation and the relationship the victims had with the city that came to their rescue. When a munitions ship exploded in Halifax harbour the city of Boston came to Nova Scotia's aid sending relief materials and emergency personnel to help the afflicted within 24 hours of the incident. Over 90 years have passed since that fateful day but the people of Nova Scotia still pay tribute to the city of Boston for their timely assistance by donating the official Christmas tree of Boston for the past 35 plus years.
In commemoration of that special bond officials from Nova Scotia join the mayor and people of Boston to light the magnificent 47-foot Christmas tree during the first week of December. Typically taking place between 6 and 8pm the official ceremony includes high profile entertainers as well as a generous helping of local talent that keeps the crowds entertained till the hour of the lighting approaches. Past attendees have included R&B icon Brian McKnight and American Idol finalist Melinda Doolittle while the Boston Arts Academy Dance, the Huntington Theatre Company and the Masquerade cabaret troupe helped the Boston Symphony Orchestra churn out seasonal staples.
With 300,000 lights illuminating the massive fir and the melodious sounds of bells ringing, the tree lighting ceremony is part of Boston's vibrant holiday display which includes 80 Christmas trees scattered throughout the city and the LED illumination of the Parkman Bandstand. The Frog Pond skating rink will also feature colourful projections while refreshments and holiday giveaways will also be available at the tree lighting ceremony courtesy of the year's sponsors.
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