Hundreds came out on a cold November night to get a look at the tree destined to sit in front of the U.S. Capitol building. "It's so cold, the politicians have their hands in their own pockets," joked U.S. Rep. Tom Davis (R-11th).
The 70-foot-tall red spruce was kept largely under wraps in the plastic "tent" that covered it as it traveled to 34 communities around the state. Vienna was the last stop for the tree before it was taken to the Capitol.
A few “windows” were opened in the protective covering so that visitors could see the tree, which was cut from Washington National Forest in Highland County. "This tree is Virginia's gift to the American people," said Mayor Jane Seeman.
Besides the tree, visitors at the Sunday, Nov. 28, event had the chance to roast marshmallows, take a ride in a horse drawn carriage, hear live music and pet animals at a petting zoo.
The festivities didn't really kick off, however, until Santa arrived on an antique truck from the Vienna Fire Department. "Vienna's one of my favorite towns," Santa said.
—Ari Cetron