By Paula Roberts
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Needham’s Blue Tree Lighting was held this past Saturday, December second, from 5:00pm to 6:00pm on the beautifully renovated Needham Town Common. There was ample parking in Town lots on Chapel Street, Chestnut Street, Lincoln Street, and Dedham Avenue. The event included a performance by the Needham High School Chorus, Plugged in Band Program, and the Olin College Fire Arts Club. Santa, who arrived on a fire truck, was happy to pose for photos with children and their families.
The Town Common is often called the “the front yard of the Town.” The Town Common is dedicated in memory of Needham Town Engineer Tony Del Gaizo, who experienced a 30-year career with the Town. The current “Great Lawn” encourages gathering in front of the Blue Tree, which is lit every year during the holiday season. The first lighting was on December 3, 1954 and the tree was adorned with 4,000 blue bulbs. Flights to New York City often pointed out the tree to their passengers as they flew over. The time came when there were two Blue Trees: one on Avery Square and one on the Town Common.
Last year in 2022, when the Town Common renovation was taking place, the lighting was held at Green’s Field. Santa still arrived on a firetruck and lit the “stand-in” Blue Tree. Greene’s Field did a great job with carolers, residents, and even the Grinch came for the holiday celebration.
In 2023, the grand reopening of the Town Common marked a significant event, accompanied by the return of the traditional Blue Tree. The Blue Tree Lighting ceremony was open to the public and free of charge. Needham's renowned holiday festivities commenced on Saturday, December 2nd, offering engaging activities for residents from Needham and the surrounding towns. Participants had the opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere while shopping and dining locally in Needham Center. The Blue Tree and holiday lights adorning the Town Common remained illuminated throughout the holiday season.
During the Blue Tree Lighting event on the Town Common, complimentary hot chocolate was provided to all attendees, courtesy of the Charles River YMCA and Needham Dunkin’. The celebration included entertainment for children, featuring Olaf from "Frozen" and a special appearance by Santa. Rockland Trust contributed to the festive spirit by distributing dozens of beautiful Christmas light bulb necklaces to the gathered celebrants.
The Town Common was filled with friendly, happy residents. Louise Condon looked relaxed and wonderful as she enjoyed the tree lighting. Condon had previously been the Master of Ceremonies for about 20 years. Emily Meyer, Administrative Specialist in the Town Manager’s office, noted that the tree lighting kicks off the holiday season, encourages a sense of community and gathering together in Needham, and showcases the holiday spirit. The enthusiastic residents have been “coming forever” to the tree lighting. The musical performances of the Needham High School chorus, the Plugged in Band Program, and the Olin College Fire Arts Club were amazing.
It was a distinct pleasure to recognize Mark McCullough during the tree lighting ceremony. With 27 years of service as a firefighter, McCullough has dedicated 22 of those years to serving the community of Needham. His notable achievement this year includes saving a man's life during a Patriot's game at Gillette Stadium, where he administered CPR.
Although there were residents who missed the original Blue Tree from the past, this year’s tree was beautifully lit and will remain a traditional Needham seasonal highlight for years to come. It was a wonderful and enthusiastic celebration on our renovated Town Common and hundreds of residents came to enjoy the friendship, music, decorations, and seasonal joy.
