An illuminated tree by Fountain Lake could resuscitate the Christmas tradition in downtown Albert Lea this year.

Destination: Albert Lea plans to erect a 25-foot evergreen and place Christmas lights on it at the north edge of Broadway.

&uot;We would like to show something positive is going on in Albert Lea,&uot; DAL secretary Mary Ellen Johnson said. &uot;We also hope the tree will be adding life to Albert Lea, and encouraging the people to visit downtown.&uot;

The tree will be provided by the county, transported from White Woods County Park. The city will help erect it in a small garden it built some years ago at the northeast corner of the municipal parking lot near Fountain Street and Broadway. Wells Fargo Bank has donated $250 to purchase the lights.

Albert Lea’s Christmas was well known, with a huge municipal Christmas tree by the lake between 1911 and ’63, according to Johnson. A beautiful display of wreaths across building tops called national attention.

Johnson said the organizers also are preparing to have an event with Santa Claus and a chorus. During the season, Broadway will be also illuminated with new lights the Chamber of Commerce has bought.

DAL and the Chamber are asking for donations from the public to facilitate the Christmas projects. Those who are interested can write a check to Christmas Funds, Albert Lea/Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce, at 143 W. Clark St., Albert Lea.