Article by: Christopher Adams, kxan.com

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The much-anticipated Zilker Holiday Tree lighting took place tonight in a special ceremony celebrating the 51st year of the Austin tradition.

Winners of a children’s art contest lit the tree at 6:50 p.m. The contest is sponsored by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department.

The tree, made of a moonlight tower, extends 155 feet into the air. Earlier this month, Austin Energy crews strung 3,159 red, yellow, green and blue lights onto the tower. Last year, the tower was renovated with energy-efficient LED light bulbs.

It’s a popular spot families flock to each year to relive memories of spinning in circles under the tree.

The Zilker Tree will be on display each night from 6 p.m. through midnight until Dec. 31. The 53rd annual Trail of Lights kicks off on Dec. 9. For a full list of special event dates and cost, click here.

Original Link: http://kxan.com/2017/11/26/zilker-holiday-tree-to-be-lit-tonight/