PHOTOS: Thousands Turn Out for Holiday Show and Tree Lighting on Common

Thousands of people showed up Thurday evening to watch dancing and muscial performaces at the 71st Annual Official Tree Lighting on Boston Common. The 45-foot white spruce was donated by Paul and Jan Hicks of Jordan Bay, Nova Scotia.

This is the 41st year that Nova Scotia has given a tree to the people of Boston as thanks for relief efforts following the December 6, 1917, explosion of a munitions ship in Halifax Harbor. Within 24 hours of the disaster a train loaded with supplies and emergency personnel was making its way from Boston to Nova Scotia.  In addition this year, Nova Scotia is donating smaller trees to two Boston charities, the Pine Street Inn and Rosie’s Place, both in the South End.    

The holiday show preceding the lighting featured Elliot Yamin of “American Idol,” “The Voice” contestant James Massone of Wakefield, Nova Scotia band Squid, the Floorlords, the Boston Arts Academy, an appearance by the Grinch, and much more.