Alpharetta Lights Its Christmas Tree Ahead of the Rain

Alpharetta lit its Christmas Tree Friday night, a live blue spruce in the mini-park at the corner of North Main Street and Milton Avenue.
Rain earlier in the day and week made the ground around the park and downtown Alpharetta very soggy, but it didn't dampen the spirits or fun at the tree lighting.

After numerous musical performances by local school and church groups and North Point Community Church's own band, it was time for the traditions.
First, Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle and his family read "Twas the Night Before Christmas." This tradition goes back to when Arthur Letchas was the city's mayor.

Next, Mayor Belle Isle invited all the children present to help with the countdown and then the tree was lit.

The mayor also made sure everyone present knew the "snow' will return on Saturday. So children who missed the chance to play in the artificial snow on Old Canton Street by the park can try again on Saturday.

Up Saturday: Christmas in Crabapple, from 2-5 p.m.