Nova Scotia Tree Lights Up Boston

A holiday tradition of gratitude and cheer for 39 years, continues Thursday, Dec. 2, when a Nova Scotia tree lights up the Boston Common, marking for many the beginning of the Christmas season.

Every year, since 1971, Nova Scotia sends a Christmas tree to the people of Boston, in recognition for the help provided following the Halifax Explosion on Dec. 6, 1917.

"This is an opportunity to remind the people of Boston about their neighbours and friends in Nova Scotia," said Deputy Premier Frank Corbett. "A strong bond was forged during a time of crisis and that bond has continued to grow in new directions."

The ceremony will take place at 8 p.m. (7 p.m. in Boston) and will be televised to an estimated audience of 300,000 on WCVB Boston Channel 5, an ABC affiliate available in Atlantic Canada on cable.

This year's tree is a 15-metre white spruce from Gary and Roseann Misner of North Alton, Kings Co. in the Annapolis Valley.

"It's an honour to have our tree chosen," said Mr. Misner. "We are proud to be able to contribute, and be a part of this tradition."

For the fourth year in a row, Nova Scotia is the sponsor of the ceremony and the WCVB broadcast that will provide exposure to the province.