Oatmeal, the 30-foot, 30-year-old Norway Spruce tree, will light up the Downtown Mall on Friday evening.
The city of Charlottesville and the University of Virginia Community Credit Union will be presenting the city’s Grand Illumination on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Ting Pavilion. The tree will stand in the middle of City Hall Plaza.
The count down to Charlottesville Grand Illumination will kick off at 7:15 p.m.
The tree is named after the holiday classic, “Frosty the Snowman.” The name garnered 1,202 votes in a recent poll, finally snatching the top spot after being a top contender over the last few years, according to the city flyer.
The tree was donated by Bob and Carol Bryde from Fishersville. After purchasing their home in 1977, they dedicated a portion of their land to planning over 10,000 trees over the course of 40 years.
The event will include food, games, prizes, music and additional activities for attendees.
America’s Got Talent American Military Spouses Choir and Voices of Service are among the 12 set to perform at the event.
Doc Jim, a Charlottesville-based visual artist, will commence the after party with a light show.
The event is free and offers complimentary parking at Market and Water Street garages starting at 4 p.m.
