Alva Review-Courier -

You've seen the Currier and Ives-like perfect community Christmas celebrations on the Hallmark channel. Look no further than Burlington, Oklahoma. The town had one of those joyous Christmas celebrations Thursday evening with a tree lighting, music program, soup supper and more.

This was Burlington's Fifth Annual Tree Lighting orchestrated by the school's FFA chapter. This tradition started in 2016 with BHS graduate and FFA President Bayli Hyde who was on an FFA officer retreat. Her friends reportedly thought Bayli was crazy when she presented her dream of having a Hallmark Christmas in Burlington, according to her mom Marci Hyde. One of those friends told Marci they were certainly glad the tradition continued and the people in the school and community keep enhancing the Christmas celebration.

On Dec. 16, 2016, Burlington FFA had the first Christmas Tree Lighting. Five years later, the school presented a joyous music program directed by "Mr. O" and FFA Tree Lighting.

The evening started with a soup supper sponsored by the Lion's Club in the bus barn. The book fair was available on site. Pallet trees painted and decorated for Christmas by the FFA Chapter were available by a silent auction.

After dinner, everyone gathered outside at Purple Park for the FFA tree lighting, music program and Christmas Carol Along. The school had a secret reveal of the lighted Elks sign.

"I see the joy that this lighting brings to my daughter. I am so thankful that the tradition continues and improves each year. Thank you so much to a wonderful community and school that lets Burlington be one of the best Hallmark towns around," Marci said.