For Emma Outen, Christmas has really arrived.
“When that tree goes up, we know it’s Christmas in Columbia,” she said.
But she’s not talking about the traditional tannenbaum, she’s referring to the 30-foot-high “poinsettia tree” in the heart of the Mall in Columbia for the holiday season.
“I’m just happy it’s back,” said the resident of Columbia for more than 30 years, who inspected this week the 740 red and white poinsettia plants arranged on tiers in the shape of a tree.
The more-than-35-year-old tradition almost came to an end this past year if it hadn’t been for Outen and hundreds of others residents who fought to save it.
This past December, many brought poinsettias to the mall and even signed a petition.
In the end, the celebrated tree returned from its one-year stay at the Symphony of Lights in Symphony Woods. The tree now stands alongside the Christmas-themed interactive mini village.
“We chose to bring the poinsettia tree back this year based on the support received during last year’s holiday season,” Jessica Bloom, senior marketing manager for the mall, said in a statement to The Examiner. “Our community is built on its values and traditions and we are delighted that the poinsettia tree is such an integral part of the community fabric.”
Guerin Hays, of Ellicott City, and his 2 1/2-year-old daughter, Madison, stopped to enjoy the tree after visiting Santa on Tuesday.
“I know people were upset about taking it down — it is a beautiful tree,” he said. “It’s a tradition, but to little kids, it really doesn’t matter.”
Even some out-of-state visitors could appreciate the mall icon.
“It is beautiful and puts you in the spirit,” said Barb Lynch, of New York.
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