The holiday season in Arlington brings with it a flourish of tradition, but few local customs shine quite like the Vandergriff family's iconic poinsettia tree, now on display at the Arlington City Hall. While the city is known to go big for Christmas, the annually displayed tree has been a standout for nearly four decades.
The Vandergriff family, with former Mayor Tom Vandergriff at the helm, began their festive practice soon after moving into their dream home back in 1968. Through the years, their home's holiday decor evolved from classic garlands and wreaths to unique one-of-a-kind snowflakes that draped the residence throughout the '80s. "They just loved doing it. My whole family's life, their lives particularly, was based on public service for Arlington," Victor Vandergriff said, as per the City of Arlington, ensuring the gesture was rooted in community spirit.
The poinsettia tree itself emerged from a vision during a 1985 New York trip, where Mrs. Vandergriff was inspired by a similarly grand floral installation. She collaborated with Lige Green Florist the following year to create Arlington's version. This tradition drew crowds until 2015, marking it as a celebrated piece of local lore. "It was always exciting when we would initially get the frame and take it out in the yard, because cars would stop," reminisced Viveca Vandergriff in a past statement, as cited by the City of Arlington.
Though the family eventually sold their home on West Park Row Drive in 2016, they were keen to preserve the treasured poinsettia tree. "This was the one piece we wanted to keep," Parker Vandergriff, the grandson of Tom and Anna Waynette, expressed, per the City of Arlington. Their dedication led to the tree's donation to the city in 2019, allowing for the continuation of this festive piece of their family's legacy within the community.
For those wishing to witness or capture a piece of Arlington's yuletide tradition, the poinsettia tree stands proudly in the City Hall at 101 W. Abram St. Visitors are welcome to view the tree and even snap holiday photos between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, throughout December.
