This year, the area's Community Christmas Tree has been named Hope and Hospitality.
This year's tree features popcorn and cranberry garland, adding nostalgia to the beauty of the tree and twinkling lights, representing the Star of Bethlehem.
With the Branson Ferris Wheel as a backdrop, the fifth annual Branson/Lakes Area Community Christmas Tree was lit during a special ceremony on Friday night. The evening included a holiday singalong led by Branson favorite Rick McEwen, and remarks from Mayor Larry Milton, as well as a countdown prior to the lighting of the spectacular tree.
Decked out in Christmas attire, Mayor Milton said, "This is my favorite time of the year. We are all blessed to live in a Christian community that truly appreciates what Christmas is all about. I could not be more proud to be the Mayor of Branson, Missouri."
Mayor Milton shared with Branson newcomers the reason that Branson begins celebrating Christmas on November 1. "Because Andy Williams said to," said Milton. "Andy Williams, 'Mr. Christmas' embraced our community, and when he said 'we're going to start celebrating Christmas on November 1,' that was good enough for the rest of us! I want us all to think about over this Christmas season, what it truly means. Let's share the love and joy with each other. May God bless America, may God bless Branson, and may God bless each and every one of you. Merry Christmas!"
Presented by the Branson Christmas Coalition and Ozark Mountain Legacy, the tree honors Ozark Mountain Country as a place of hope and hospitality.
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