Jacksonville Begins the Holiday Season with Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
- Dec 1, 2017
- 2 min read
This year marks the 31st annual Christmas tree lighting for Jacksonville. The tree overlooks the St. Johns River and stands at 56 feet tall, adorned with larger than life ornaments and decked with over 78,000 energy efficient lights.
"It's a fun time of year. Every night through December the Christmas tree will feature light shows that play in time with music," told one staff member of Benny's Steak and Seafood, one of the many waterfront restaurants at the Jacksonville Landing.
Hundreds of spectators flocked to the Jacksonville Landing to view the spectacular show. The ceremony lasted several hours and as people anxiously awaited the lighting and fireworks, there was no shortage of entertainment. Musicians such as Andrew Sapin and Brady Clampitt performed through the night with holiday classics such as "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer". Voices of the crowd singing along could be heard through the cold November air, creating a cheery atmosphere. Schott Jones School of Dance and Grace Conservatory also provided entertainment by performing various dance numbers.
As the time for the lighting approached the host of the show, Arthur Crofton, led the audience through a countdown. When the countdown reached zero, the tree was illuminated and a spectacular display of fireworks simultaneously broke through the night sky. The crowd watched in awe and erupted in applause when it was over. This annual tradition of lighting the Christmas brings the community together and provides a fun night out for families and friends. It can be anticipated that the community will continue to participate in the local season's festivities and that next year's Christmas tree lighting will have an even bigger turn out.
For more information on upcoming holiday events at the Jacksonville Landing and the Christmas tree nightly light show, visit their website.
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