Merry Christmas from Austin, Texas

Okay, I know it has been a week since Christmas Day. In my defense, though, I did not know I would receive a new lens from Santa. So last night I set out to grab some shots of the Zilker Park Tree. I know most folks are used to a more traditional Christmas Tree in their town, but here in Austin this is what we have - and what we love!! The Zilker Tree stands 155 ft. tall and is composed of 39 streamers, each holding 81 multi-colored, 25 watt bulbs, totaling 3,309 lights. At the top of the tree, a double star measures 10 ft. from point to point. The double star contains 150 frosted bulbs. The unique spiral pattern of lights was created by City of Austin electricians. At its circumference, the tree measures 380 ft. The diameter is 120 ft. The base of the tree is made up of 19 utility poles, each 14 ft. tall, arranged in a circle around the Moon Tower.

Origins:
The Zilker Park Tree was initiated in 1965 by Mrs. Alden (Mable) Davis, civic leader and chairperson for the City's Special Holiday Activities Committee. The tree was designed by City of Austin electricians Odie Bull, D.J. Kozlowski, Fred Scatlen, and Merle Wheeler. On December 10, 1967 the first tree was lighted by Mayor Pro Tem Mrs. Emma Long. In subsequent years this honor has been awarded to the young winner of a city-wide tree coloring contest. The winner of the yearly art contest gets the honor to throw the switch to illuminate the tree.

One favorite tradition of Austinites is to stand under the tree and twirl. Just stand right off the center, underneath the tree. Grab a friend, look upwards, and start spinning around and around.