[ccfic caption-text format="plaintext"]
In a continuation of a beloved Needham tradition, the town illuminated its Blue Tree over the weekend.
Needham Lights, which began in 1954, started when Clarke Wertheim, president of The Board of Trade and Needham Rotary, proposed placing a maple tree in front of Town Hall and adorning it with blue lights. The tree subsequently became a Needham institution, attracting residents and out-of-towners alike to experience one of the area’s more unique holiday displays.
Now run by the Needham Business Association (NBA), this year’s iteration of the Blue Tree’s lighting - which occurred 62 years to the day after the very first lighting in 1954 - proved just as festive as those in years past. In fact, given that there are now two Blue Trees in town (on Avery Square and the town common), one might argue it was twice as festive.
In addition to the illumination of the tree itself, the town was treated to visits from musicians and entertainers in advance of the lighting. The Plugged In program lent its collective talents in serenading visitors to the common. Community leaders addressed the crowd. Volante Farms and St. Joseph’s Parish, both celebrating their centennials in town, joined in leading the event.
Even Santa Claus himself took time out of his busy holiday schedule to celebrate with the town.
With the Blue Trees now lending their glow to town, Needham looks forward to a warm, wonderful holiday season.
