City Freaks Out Over 'Ugly' Christmas Tree

Was topped with lighted pretzel
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Nov 23, 2014 1:50 PM CST
Updated Nov 23, 2014 2:10 PM CST
City's 'Ugly' Xmas Tree Sparks Outcry
In this photo taken on Friday, Nov. 21, 2014, residents look on duing the Christmass the tree lighting in Reading, Pa.    (Ben Hasty)

A Christmas tree that might make Charlie Brown think twice is getting kicked to the curb a little early after residents of a Pennsylvania town complained it was too ugly. Reading's spindly 50-foot spruce drew the ire of residents who said it was ruining their holiday spirit. Now a group led by the city council president is raising money to buy and decorate a more impressive replacement. The current tree is topped with a lighted pretzel, a nod to the area's many bakeries.

The puny pine was a last-minute stand-in taken from a city park. The city had planned to get its tree from a farm, but the owner wouldn't let the crews drive on the wet ground when they went to pick it up. Officials are hoping to have a do-over tree lighting ceremony next weekend. (Read more Christmas tree stories.)

We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy.
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X