Gordon Sheet Metal Christmas Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 19 • Gather a little before 6:00 PM
in the vicinity of the Gordon Sheet Metal Quonset Hut • Grice Street, Downtown Elizabeth City
Gather to watch the Gordon Sheet Metal & Roofing Co. Christmas Tree be lit on December 19 at 6:00 pm in the vicinity of 204 E. Grice Street.
For nearly four decades, a lighted metal Christmas tree has appeared—almost magically -- above Downtown Elizabeth City. Suspended in the sky from a Gordon Sheet Metal crane at the historic Gordon Sheet Metal Quonset Hut, it’s long been our unofficial signal that Christmas is here.
Most years, no one really knows when it’s going up. You just look up one night and there it is, and it makes you smile.
For the first time, the Gordon family is letting us in on their treasured tradition.
You’re invited to share in a moment that has always felt a little secret, a little sacred—something passed down through generations of the Gordon family since the 1980s and anticipated by the community every year.
On December 19, just before 6:00 PM, stroll or drive up to the area near the historic Quonset hut on Grice Street. Look toward the sky. You’ll see the iconic wire-and-metal tree—strung with red and green lights (not yet lit)—hanging from a large crane, a tradition started by World War II veteran Charles Gordon, nearly 40 years ago.
There’s no stage, no speeches, no fuss. Just a family, a crane, a tree made of metal and wire, and a town that loves the tradition.
At precisely 6:00 PM, the Gordon family will flip the switch and light the tree. It will remain light and suspended above the city for ten days, until December 29, when the family will quietly lower it.
Please respect the family’s tradition by watching from a comfortable and respectful distance; enjoy the moment without gathering too closely near the Quonset hut where the family will be. Be safe and watch for others who may be walking or standing in the area. Don’t block traffic. Don't leave litter behind. Please behave so we're invited back next year. ;-)
Feel free (AND PLEASE DO!) honk your horn or give a loud shout out to the family when the lights come on to show the Gordon family that they’re appreciated for this wonderful tradition.
You may also like the following events from Elizabeth City Downtown, Inc:
- This Monday, 1st December, 12:00 pm, Elizabeth City Downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest 2025 in Elizabeth City
- This Friday, 5th December, 04:00 pm, Pailin's Alley Magical Winter Wonderland hosted by Hoppin' Johzn in Elizabeth City
- This Friday, 5th December, 07:00 pm, Lighted Boat Parade 2025 Elizabeth City, NC in Elizabeth City
