EDENTON JOY TREE TRADITION GROWING
LIGHTING UP HOLIDAY NIGHTS
It could be said it’s a local’s secret, but the secret’s out and it has spread across the county. However, for whatever the reason, it is not as well known anywhere else as it is here, once again, a birthplace for a tradition, the Joy Tree.
Many may not know this but Edenton may be one of the only town’s in eastern North Carolina where an abundance of trees are blossoming in the frigid cold spell embracing the town.
The seeds for these trees were actually planted in Edenton according to the story tellers and it seems to be a proud Christmas tradition.
Joy trees are blooming in abundance throughout town and the folks, locals and visitors are enjoying the seasonal multi colored blossoms.
The season is in full swing. Red bows, tails fluttering, struggling at times to hold on to the greenery attached to the street lights on South Broad Street add to the town’s welcoming cheer. The stores, filled with unique products and the historic homes have been dresses for the holidays.
Shining a variety of bright lights on the entire season are the Joy Trees that grace the properties on streets throughout town.
The tradition began over a decade ago when town folk started to spread JOY through a less disciplined way of stringing. A ‘joy full’ toss is the technique some use to decorate the various pieces of collaborated artwork.
Whether walking or gazing while driving by the Joy Trees of Edenton will certainly brighten the holidays. There has been talk of a joy tree map, but they grow so sporadically updates would be a monumental task. Walk around, have fun. Water St., Queen St. Blount St. Granville, Church and the Cotton Mill Village are all areas where trees are blooming. But remember, the stores, the sidewalks and all the folks in Edenton are filled with Holiday Joy, thanks to another proud, joyful tradition. Happy Holidays. The Joy Tree picture of people in front of the tree captures the spreading of joy from Melody Perdue. To see Melody’s entire video on How To Spread Joy, Decorating a Joy Tree, go to https://www.facebook.com/reel/908885744796352
Finally, if you are driving through town watch for children and adults also enjoying the evening.
SOCIALLY SPEAKING, THE SEASON IS A GLOW
THAT WAS SOME PARTY...
I have lived in some very special cities and towns over the years including California’s wine country. Because of 27 years along the central coast, Carmel, Sonoma and Napa, I am a bit spoiled when it comes to attending some very elaborate and stunning parties.
Herringbone owners, restaurateurs Stephanie and Joe Wach brought those feelings to Edenton Thursday evening as they christened a holiday tent the community can enjoy throughout the season.
The Herringbone’s professional team topped them all.
Entering the elaborateIt setting, I could see a Hallmark movie in the making, You know the ones filmed in the perfect town with the perfectly styled cast of characters.
Smiles and greetings were bountiful as friends and neighbors enjoyed catching up inside the tent and the restaurant. Stephanie decorated the massive tent with fresh holiday greens and red roses. Tiny white lights cast a glittery glow throughout the space, so complimentary it appeared everyone had work done.
The Brian Smith Band kept toes tapping and filled the space with terrific tunes throughout the evening. The upbeat sound was perfect for the night.
Anne Rowe and Kim Asack tripped the light fantastic making some very fancy dance moves to the envy of Stuart Proctor.
Few had any idea the duo had those hidden steps.
The Herringbone’s large slab of finished wood bar, boasting rough sawn edges was highlighted by the carved Herringbone logo on top. The very impressive work was created by Lucas Belton, who recently began his own business, Rustic to Reclaimed located at 160 Peanut Drive.
The buffet was a culinary creation worth noting. The cups of Brunswick Stew was everyone’s favorite and the unofficial vote is it should appear on the Herringbone menu.
The Herring shaped cookies and puffs on a stick were both delicious hits and were consumed in abundance. The puff count pre-event must have been an amazing display.
When the Brian Smith Band took a break Joe greeted his guest. The unofficial estimate was about 300 Edentonians attended. Joe spoke with sincerity and thanked his staff for their hard work and efforts for making the Herringbone a great place and offered a meaningful message of community.
“Thanks for being part of Edenton and the amazing place where history and hospitality come together and where we light the fuse to the holiday season”.
Joe’s entire message and Anne and Kim ‘tripping the light’ was captured on video and photos are on the home page for your viewing pleasure. You may have noticed I captured a few ‘new couples’ enjoying the holiday party together. It’s great to see new faces contributing to the pulse of the community.
I wish everyone a happy holiday season and Merry Christmas. Don’t forget to reach out to others less fortunate this season. Have a very Merry Christmas.
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