Our Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors already know how much we value our traditions, and our annual tree-lighting ceremony is no exception. For more than 50 years, folks have gathered around St. Albans Circle to ring in the Christmas holidays with dancing, hot chocolate, carols and, of course, Santa on the firetruck.
The original tree that our local Girl Scouts had planted was removed in 2018 because it was no longer thriving and became a safety concern. In its place, the township installed a pole and strung lights in the shape of a tree for the next few years until a new tree could be selected and planted.
Well, the wait is over! On Monday, November 7th, the new Newtown Township Holiday Tree was planted, and it’s a beauty! The weather certainly cooperated as well, with bright, sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s.
Last month, the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors authorized the purchase of our new 20′ Norway Spruce, and our Public Works crew quickly got to work preparing the site and installing a new electrical box and wires.
The Norway Spruce is the fastest growing of the spruces and develops strong branches that are covered with dark green needles. It will grow to a height of 40–60′ and a spread of 25–30′ at maturity. Its growth rate is considered a medium to fast rate, with height increases of anywhere from 13″ to more than 24″ per year.
Thank you to all who helped make this possible. We look forward to enjoying the twinkling lights this Christmas and for many years to come!