Thursday, December 20, 2007

Teddy's Tree Lighting

In 1911, the Dixon Family donated the first teddy bear to place on top of the annual holiday tree. Unfortunately, over the years, Teddy disintegrated and he was refurbished with a new outer layer in 1987. After a few huge storms in 1998, he had to be refurbished again. This is how Teddy looks today as he is getting ready to be hoisted to the top of the city's holiday tree by the local utility department.


Here is the beautifully lit tree. You can't see Teddy as he's waaaay up there.


This is the local middle school jazz band performing at the ceremony.


A few of Teddy's furry friends were also in attendance.


My photograpahic journey through San Francisco will be put on hold for now for photos more befitting for the season. Happy Friday!

- AV

12 comments:

Rune Eide said...

I must say I have never heard of Teddy bear at the top of a Christmas tree! But why not? It should make for a fun and cheerful tradition. Good capture!

Anonymous said...

Nice photos. It must be fun with the Jazz band.

Alex
Alex's World! - http://www.kakinan.com/alex

Kate said...

What a hoot! I wonder if Olivier and Amidee have seen this post? It's wonderful community spirit!!

Andrea said...

Sounds like a wonderful time. I too have never heard of a teddy bear tree top but whatever floats their boat.

dot said...

I hope Teddy doesn't freeze up there! Well, he does have a nice fur coat on. LOL!
I will be taking a break soon. Merry Christmas to you!

Lilli & Nevada said...

What a neat idea and to carry such a long tradition on. I have never heard of putting a teddy bear on a tree either but surely nice as they are so cuddly
Merry Christmas to you and your family

Lara said...

Happy Holidays! See you next year with lots of other wonderful images! today you had a really nice post!

AVCr8teur said...

RuneE/Andrea/Lilli & Nevada, yes it is a pretty unique tradition. I think the tree is a little too tall to spot the small bear all the way at the top.

AVCr8teur said...

Thanks Alex, it was cold and those kids played their hearts out. Nothing keeps you in the holiday mood than jazzy Christmas music.

AVCr8teur said...

Thanks Lara. Glad to hear you enjoy the photos. Blogging is a great way to share stories and photos with people around the world.

AVCr8teur said...

Kate, spread the word about this teddy bear tradition. I like how Teddy has his little hardhat on. I know lots of kids came just to see Teddy placed on the tree.

AVCr8teur said...

Dot, I always wonder how Teddy looks after being up on the tree for a month. I'm going to be taking a week break soon too so happy holidays to you and your family.