Charlottesville is in the Christmas Spirit

December is here, which marks the start of the holiday season. Dec. 1, Charlottesville held its annual Grand Illumination at the Ting Pavilion. Ting sponsored the event, and Dominion Energy sponsored the illumination. The event also was accompanied by multiple small businesses, presented by the Holiday Market. Activities included music, entertainment, food and drinks, and giveaways. 

 Even during the rain and cold weather, the people of Charlottesville still showed their Christmas spirit. There were smiles on people’s faces, and the laughter of children filled the pavilion. There were many activities, and people could visit and learn about small businesses. There was live music further down into the overhead. Christmas carolers lined up and sang popular Christmas songs, and the group Michael 25 performed as well. 

Toward the end of the event, the majority of the attendees gathered around the tree for the grand illumination. Ahead appeared to be a 25-foot-tall tree topped with a star tree-topper. As 7:30 p.m. came around, it was time for the tree to be lit. As the countdown began, the crowd joined in: 10, 9, 8, 7…3, 2, 1. Then, the tree was illuminated and was given a name: Spruce Willis. As the tree came to life, so did the spirit of Christmas. Joining Spruce was Santa, who took pictures with anyone who wanted one.