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[instrumental version of "Joy To the World" plays] ♪
(Nick) Way up north, nestled in the heart of Vermont,
there's a little town called Evergreen.
Oh, but you know all about Evergreen.
It's where...
(Katie) Excuse me, I can take it from here,
if that's okay.
(Male Narrator) Oh, ho ho ho. By all means. Be my guest.
(Female Narrator) And so there's Evergreen, Vermont.
The place that knows how to shake a snow globe,
send a letter to Santa, and where Christmas trees
are often delivered in a big red truck.
My story started on the train.
Come to think of it, that's where it ended, too.
Let's not get ahead of ourselves.
[shutter snaps]
Oh.
Hmm.
[rumbling sound]
Oh, wow, I am so sorry!
You okay?
Yes, I was just, uh, looking for a plug.
Right. Okay.
[laughs]
Sit.
Uh, well, good luck with that.
This train's been running long before the...
anyone needed to plug anything in.
Well, that makes sense.
Yeah, this train is like The Polar Express
combined with the Hogwarts Express and ended up...
The Evergreen Express.
Yeah, we do a pretty good job of promoting Christmas cheer.
We? Are you from Evergreen?
Born and raised.
[gasps] Wow.
I've been reading a lot about it.
It's getting a lot of press!
Mmmhmm.
Yes, yes, yes, look.
"With its world-renowned Christmas festival,
"Evergreen, Vermont has become a must-see destination
"for anyone seeking the magic of the Christmas season."
All true.
Okay, so what,
does this town just magically disappear after Christmas,
and then magically reappear at the first snowfall?
Like Brigadoon?
Yes!
No. They're the next town over, but they're our competition
because we do fewer musical numbers than them.
But our football team is better.
[laughs]
I'm Ben Baxter.
Hi. Katie Connell.
-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.
You too.
[laughs]
What brings you to Evergreen?
Some time off, actually.
I published a novel a few years ago,
and since then I've been working as a freelance writer.
I've been doing a lot of reading and I read about your town,
thought I should come check it out.
Are you also going to be writing about this place?
No, you know, I plan on experiencing Evergreen.
See, at some point, I have to work on my second novel,
and I think it might be good for me to take a break.
Clear my head.
Change of scenery.
Well, you're in luck, because scenery we do have.
Oh, wow!
[whimsical Christmas music] ♪
[train bell dings]
Next stop Evergreen Vermont.
Thank you.
Wow.
Look at this.
Can I offer you a ride to town?
Oh, thank you.
But everything I read mentions it's a beautiful walk.
It is a nice walk.
So, the centre of town is pretty much that way,
and that's where all the action takes place.
All right.
Okay, see ya.
Well, I guess, Merry Christmas.
[crowd chants] Merry Christmas!
Oh my goodness, wow.
Welcome to Evergreen.
[phone rings]
Oh.
Hey Mom.
Katie, hi. You made it okay?
I did.
Smells like pine, there's light snow falling.
Not going to lie, already feel pretty relaxed.
How are you?
Well, I wouldn't say it's been my best day.
I need to find a writer to help fill the cover story
for our next issue.
Wait, I thought you had that sports reporter
doing the story about inventing a new sport.
I did. He broke both of his hands.
Yikes.
Okay, so you're?...
I'm wondering if you wanted to throw your hat in.
To write a cover story?
But I just started a vacation.
I know, but it possibly could lead to something bigger.
We're going to be hiring some new staff in the new year,
and this would help move you to the front of the line.
But Mom, I really, really love freelancing,
and I am so excited to write my second novel.
I know, but you're really good at this.
And it would be nice to get you something,
you know, stable.
Mom.
Thank you, but I... I don't think I can right now.
Take a few hours and see if an idea occurs to you.
-Hello? Mom? -Katie are you there?
[groans]
Oh man.
[sighs]
[Jazzy version of "Deck The Halls] █ ♪
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪
♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪
♪
♪ Don we now our gay apparel ♪
♪
♪ Troll the ancient yuletide carol ♪
♪
♪ See the blazing yule before us ♪
♪
♪ Strike the harp and join the chorus ♪
♪
♪ Follow me in merry measure ♪
♪
♪ Well I tell of yuletide treasure ♪
♪
Excuse me. Hi. I'm just looking for a... wow.
50 years, huh?
Yeah.
That the town has managed to pull it off that long
feels like a miracle sometimes.
Crooked?
You say that every year, Ezra.
And every year, I'm right.
Which is the most frustrating part.
Yeah, it's crooked.
Well, if Thomas was here, he'd have it done in no time.
Yeah, don't remind me.
They're racing to close that logging camp before Christmas.
Before that storm rolls in.
So for now, we can just keep with tradition
and hang it on a weird angle.
You know Ezra, it's not going to be the same around here
without you.
It helps that the new mayor won by a landslide.
Stop saying "landslide." I was the only one running.
Well, that's because nobody wanted to run against
the woman who had the best plans on how to run a town.
All right you two.
Can we just take this side up a little bit?
Oh, you needed something.
Oh, I just need a phone charger.
But congratulations, Madam Mayor.
Call me Michelle, it's fine.
I'm Katie.
Hey Katie.
You want Daisy's Country Store.
Just across the square. They sell everything.
Phone chargers, wool socks, you name it.
(Ezra) How's that?
Well, if it were perfect, it wouldn't be charming.
Katie, her store's right over there.
Oh, thank you so much.
You're welcome.
So this is Brutus.
Brutus has a touch of arthritis so I wrote you a prescription.
Putting it in your pocket.
And then this is Max.
Now Max has a clean bill of health,
but he just needs a lot of cuddles.
Oh, well I love cuddles too, Max.
Aww.
Well, I hope you guys are going to love being
with your foster mom.
And if you need anything while I'm gone,
Doctor Meyers...
[talking simultaneously] in Montpellier will handle all of your patients...
... cows that will go into labour.
We got it.
Yes, we got it.
Okay. And you also have my cell phone number.
You have to stop worrying. You're going to Paris!
And Ryan is going to be so excited to see you there
when he accepts that award.
I know.
I've just never been out of Evergreen for Christmas
and it's going to be tough
saying goodbye to my parents later, and...
And you talk about how big the world is
and how you want to go see it, so seriously,
Allie, go be with Ryan and Zoey.
I've got your truck keys and I'll feed your fish.
That's right,
and I've got these two good little boys, right?
We're going to have fun, guys.
You know she's going to end up adopting them.
1,000 percent.
Excuse me.
Hi.
Sorry, here.
Hi. Welcome to Daisy's Country Store.
Thank you.
Uh, I'm... I'm actually looking for a charger.
Uh, just a charger?
Sure. Nothing else?
Because we are just filled with all kinds of
cute little quaint things made right here in Evergreen.
Like, do you see those hats right there?
How cute are they, right?
Hannah made those hats.
Yeah.
And they are so cute.
But um...
Like everybody that comes to a general store,
you're looking for something practical and general.
Oh Lisa, don't worry.
Tourist season is just right around the corner.
Well, that's true. Um, actual tourist.
Well, careful now.
A lot of people come in here as tourists
and end up as residents.
Mmmhmm.
Yeah, that's true. Actual resident.
[laughs]
I'll go get you that charger.
Thank you.
Um, would you guys, uh, happen to have directions
to Barbara's Country Inn?
[laughs] Yeah.
I'm dropping off decorations over there.
Do you want a lift?
Are, are you sure?
Welcome to Evergreen.
People are a lot friendlier than you'd imagine.
Yeah.
All right. Here is your charger, here are the decorations.
Okay.
And the hat's on me.
Oh. Wow.
Thanks.
You guys really are nice.
[laughing]
Thank you.
(Hannah) Come on.
(Katie) Bye.
Thank you.
That's a terrible way to run a business.
Whatever. Be nice. It's Christmas.
(Elliot) Hey.
-Hi! -Hey!
Just in time to turn on the lights.
Yeah, well Lisa has some snowflakes for you.
Katie, this is Elliot.
He runs the art centre in town.
Hi.
I told you I'd like to keep calling it
the Turner Tinker Shop.
That's really sweet of you, but it's an art centre too.
I mean, the Turner Tinker Shop used to be my parents store
where people went to go get things repaired.
And I still like fixing things,
plus there's so much history in the name.
You should stop by and see.
I just set up a new area for crafts
and a glass blowing studio.
Plus the rumour around town is that the place
has something to do with a secret Christmas time capsule.
A Christmas time capsule? Really?
Really.
I used to hear my parents talking about it,
but it's one of those things
that people aren't sure actually exists.
Uh, little help?
Oh, yeah.
Excuse me a minute.
Welcome to Evergreen.
Thanks.
Well, you two are the cutest couple I've ever seen.
Huh?
You!
-Oh! Us? -How's this?
No, we're just friends.
Oh, sorry.
I just, the banter and the back and forth, and the...
Nah-
Just the overall...
Nah-
Demeanour, it felt...
-Nah. -Okay.
You know, um... Oh, we should get you checked in.
Yeah.
Uh, Megan? A guest needs to check in.
-Yes. -Yes.
[Instrumental version of "Jingle Bells"] █ ♪
[phone rings]
Hi, Mom.
So, I don't mean to rush you,
but I have reached out to just about
everyone I normally rely on.
You know, I was thinking there might actually be a story here.
In Vermont?
Well, this town, every business has a Christmas theme.
There's even this Christmas time capsule.
You are hired.
Okay, Mom, slow down.
At least let me send you a pitch or something,
see if you like it.
I already like it.
Christmas town turns Christmas profit.
Well uh, that's not the angle entirely,
but I can try to...
Honey, just send me something as soon as you can.
Katie, thank you.
You really are helping me out of a bind.
Oh, you're welcome Mom.
Just do your best.
Okay. Bye.
♪
[inhales]
"A Merry Christmas, Bob," said Scrooge,
with an earnestness that could not be mistaken.
As he clapped him on the back,
"And a merry Christmas Bob, my good fellow."
Now Ebenezer Scrooge, this time of year...
[whispering] Not my favourite Christmas story,
but it is a crowd pleaser.
Louisa May Alcott's is much better.
Now Ebenezer...
Can I help you find anything in particular?
Yes, actually.
Um, I'm looking for some local history.
Oh, yes. Come here.
Okay.
We have a whole section of Vermonters from Rudy Valley
to Allison Bechdel, Robert Frost...
Ben and Jerry.
[laughs]
But what about Evergreen specifically?
Oh. Well, we do have a lot of newspapers.
Look at that.
So old and beautiful.
And we have one hat
from the very famous Evergreen Hat Factory.
It was our first industry, which changed of course.
You know, I think there might be a good article here.
You are a reporter.
Oh, well, um...
It's hard to say.
Except for on the train,
you said that you weren't writing about Evergreen, so.
'Cause on the train, I wasn't.
But with all the Christmas goings on
and this rumoured time capsule, I...
Oh, you should see our choir.
[sighs]
These articles people write, they make us all seem
like we're all just a bunch of...
Oh, my grandson is very protective of Evergreen,
and I keep telling him
Evergreen is a town who takes pride in what it is.
Ah. David.
Hi Ben.
Hi Mrs. Baxter.
Hi.
David, you're early.
Carol wanted to know if it was okay to have today's meeting
at the Kringle Kitchen.
So she can see Allie off.
It depends, I don't... I don't know if Nan can spare me.
Oh, of course I can.
Go off to your stuffy old historical society meeting
and, um, bring back pie, please and thank you.
Historical society, huh?
Can I come along?
It's more of a members only society.
I see. Do you know how one becomes a member?
Just go to the meeting.
Ah!
We've been trying to get more people to participate all year.
Great. Lead the way.
Great.
You gonna come along?
I don't want to be late, and I hear there's pie.
It's the Kringle Kitchen.
Oh hey!
Hi.
How's it going?
24 hours in Evergreen and I'm already joining societies.
[laughs]
Oh, is this the famous snow globe?
It is.
Want to make a wish?
Yes, thanks.
[sighs]
I know there's a second book in me, snow globe.
Don't let me down.
[magical music] ♪
[whispers] Magic.
[whispers] I hope so.
Should we come to order?
David brought a guest.
We have a new face.
This is Katie.
Hi Katie, I'm Carol, and that's my husband Joe.
Hello.
Thank you for letting me crash your meeting.
Glad to have you aboard.
Ben has just been telling us you're writing about Evergreen?
Uh, I'm not entirely sure just yet what I'm...
-Sit here. -Thank you.
Uh, writing about.
But I'm taking a few notes.
Thank you.
I keep hearing about this time capsule.
Oh ho, we haven't talked about that for a while.
But maybe some fresh eyes can help us figure it out.
And now we have two journalists for the price of one.
Ben has a journalism degree.
Wrote for a paper in Chicago
before coming back here and work...
Okay, okay.
Okay, well.
My parents used to run this diner when it was just a bakery,
and they were best friends with...
My parents, who of course ran the town tinker shop.
Which is also the town art centre.
Yes.
(Hannah) When we were kids,
we'd always hear this talk about a Christmas time capsule.
But then every time we'd ask our parents about it,
they'd just kind of smile and say
"oh, you know, one day."
[laughing]
And then a few years ago,
we found this archive of newspapers
and found this article.
Yes. The Christmas blizzard.
50 years ago, a blizzard kept everyone in town
for almost the entire month of December.
If you read right there.
Right.
(David) "Some residents of Evergreen also passed the time
"by making a surprise time capsule
"to be opened in 50 years."
Meaning this year.
Mm-hmm.
Yes, but the problem is,
there hasn't been any other articles written.
And our parents have passed.
There's nobody really that remembers anything.
Wow, nobody?
Well, Nan said there might be another box
to look through at the library.
Keep at it, buddy.
Is there anything else that you'd like to discuss?
Yes, well let's start the meeting
and talk about our plans for...
Oh, that's Allie, that's our daughter.
Michelle is driving her to the...
[tears up]
We can be brave about this. Probably.
Allie!
Honey!
The great world awaits.
Mom.
Just have the best time.
Thanks.
Tell Ryan and Zoey Merry Christmas.
I will, and I'll be back after New Year's.
Everything's going to be fine, I promise.
I mean, I hope.
Oh, it will...
You guys.
Love you too.
I love you.
Merry Christmas.
Have such a good time.
Thank you.
I'll bring you some croissants.
Please!
[laughs]
Thank you.
Have a great adventure.
I'm sure you'll have easy travels
and all kinds of fun Christmas surprises.
Thank you, Nick.
[truck door closes]
All right, moment of truth.
[engine starts]
I guess the truck says we're a go!
[cheering]
Joyeaux Noel!
Merry Christmas!
Ooh.
It's freezing.
Bye.
So, did you learn everything you needed about Evergreen?
If I'm being totally honest,
feels a little too good to be true.
Okay, which part? I'm just curious.
Well first off,
you have a guy who looks exactly like Santa on vacation.
Yeah, Nick.
He splits his time between Evergreen and...
The North Pole?
Burlington. He comes for December.
Look, I... I get it.
Even alleyways are decorated for Christmas.
It makes sense, I'm for it.
You have to put on a good show.
Nah, it's...
It's for the tourists.
It's not that, it's...
People love to get out of the city and enjoy a real Christmas.
Wait, wait, wait.
Are you saying that city Christmases aren't real?
I mean, we're just not cynical here.
Who says we are?
[glass shatters]
(Hannah) Ahhhh!!!
Oh, no!
I was just trying to make a wish.
I'm partially to blame myself.
I... I bumped into Hannah, and...
No, no, I should've had a better grip on it.
I'm so sorry, guys.
Accidents happen.
No. This globe has been an Evergreen tradition, and now?
Now we'll just focus on getting it fixed.
Yeah.
Do you think Elliot might be able to do something about it?
It's worth a shot.
I should probably get back to the library and check on Nan.
So you're masquerading as a mild-mannered librarian
when underneath it all,
you're actually a mild-mannered reporter?
Yes, I used to be a journalist but it's not what I do now.
Why not?
What, too nosy?
Yes.
But it also means you're good at your job.
I used to be a journalist and I was actually pretty good at it.
Then I came back here to help out for a little bit and...
And?
The library is sort of like my family.
After my parents died, Nan raised me.
Oh, sorry. Just... follow-up questions.
Hey, so if I wanted know about town history, who would I ask?
That would be David.
Oh!
That kid's the eyes and ears of this place.
I will keep that in mind.
He's usually in the library though,
so I'll probably see you around.
[chuckles]
So, what were you wishing for?
Oh, I've had a complicated relationship with this globe.
Mmm.
It hasn't granted your wishes?
I mean, sometimes I think I'm not being specific enough,
sometimes I'm being too specific.
Honestly, I don't know.
Yeah.
So, remember.
A good Christmas ornament has colour.
It evokes a feeling of nostalgia.
And it's made with care.
What are you making?
Oh, this?
It's a key ornament for my Aunt Hannah.
I really want her to know how much fun I think she is.
She definitely is that.
Elliot!
Oh, hi David.
Hi.
I was just leading a workshop on ornament making.
You can join if...
Woah!
Yeah.
Oh no.
Do you think you can fix it?
Uh... Absolutely.
Let's see what we got.
Okay, let's have a look at this.
Hmm.
Well, the two pine trees are intact.
That's good.
The horse is fine.
[magical music] ♪
There's a little key carved under the sleigh.
But?
(Both) Why?
[clears throat]
I'll get to work on this right away.
Great.
If you'd like to help, you can come by tomorrow.
Yes.
It's a date.
I'll see you tomorrow.
[clears throat nervously]
Okay. See you tomorrow.
Bye.
Bye David.
Bye.
[Jazzy Christmas music] ♪
Oh Megan, I have something for you.
Look at this.
[laughing]
We don't often have published authors in town.
You have my book.
Well, I have a library, so I have a lot of books.
Here, sweetie.
Thank you.
So, how is the article going?
Tricky.
Oh.
You know, my Mom works for a business magazine,
but honestly, I would rather write about
the Christmas time capsule.
Don't give up hope on being able to.
That time capsule was intended to be a surprise,
and this town...
I thought nobody remembered anything
about the Christmas time capsule.
[nervously] Well... I guess...
Ho, ho, ho!
I was beginning to think you weren't coming.
Oh, we wouldn't miss it.
It's my favourite tradition.
Well, with more guests coming for this weekend,
I'm going to need my first round of cookies.
If you'd like to help, we can always use more hands.
Oh, I...
Hey everybody.
Yeah. Sure. I'd love to help.
Yeah, cookie time.
David, I found a few new news clippings in the archive,
and I know you're on another search,
so maybe this will be helpful.
Wow.
Thank you, Mrs. Baxter.
Yeah.
You're welcome.
[giggles]
[Jazzy version of "Deck the Halls"] ♪
No room?
No problem.
♪
I picked out the perfect tree for out in front of the library.
Oh, great.
Yeah, if you'd come by tomorrow.
Yeah, yeah. Great.
I'll ask Hannah for the truck and...
and, uh, pop by sometime tomorrow.
Yeah, it's getting busy out there, so.
Awesome.
People come from miles around to see the folksy charm
of Henry Miller's Christmas Tree Farm.
Well, you are just writing that article right in front of me.
I am that good.
[Upbeat Christmas music] ♪
♪ There's a chill in the air ♪
♪ so crisp and so fresh ♪
♪ That Frosty himself would be proud ♪
♪ There's a cheer everywhere, ♪
♪ for time's drawing close ♪
♪ When loved ones and friends gather round ♪
♪ It's a feeling of joy in every girl, every boy ♪
♪ knowing Santa soon will be here ♪
♪ It's the time ♪
♪ What a time ♪
♪ The most magical time of year ♪
♪ It's the time ♪
♪ What a time ♪
♪ And it's finally here ♪
♪ The most magical time ♪
♪ The most magical time! ♪
♪ The most magical time of the year ♪
-Don't worry about it. -Have a good night.
Bye, thanks for coming.
Okay, you make sure to share those.
Nan, I can drive you home, it's...
No, no. I am fine.
I want to walk, it's good for me.
Yeah. I can walk with her.
Nana always has the best stories.
Okay.
So, tomorrow when you go to get the tree.
I should come along, yes?
I mean, what better way to prove that this isn't all some, like,
Christmas hallucination then to see it for myself, right?
You say it's authentic, I say prove it.
Okay, fine. Tomorrow then.
Right here.
Okay.
♪
Thank you.
Hey Ben, Katie.
Come on in.
(Ben) Morning, everyone.
I was just at the library looking for you.
I've been going through these things Nan found.
Look.
(David) Do you know where Grandma and Grandpa are standing?
(Ben) I've never seen that mural before.
Where'd you get this?
It was in the stack of papers Nan brought me.
Oh.
That's Kringle Alley, right outside.
You can see the old bakery sign in the photo,
it's where I park the cocoa cart.
(Katie) Wow, this truck really makes the rounds.
He may not like look like it, or always act like it,
but he's one of the more reliable things in town.
I'm sorry, "he?"
Yeah, Allie's truck.
She loans him out, so you're really an Evergreen someone
if you've driven the red truck.
And what's more picturesque and appealing to tourists
than a big red truck hauling Christmas trees?
Yeah, that's one way of looking at it.
What's the other?
Truck's a good way to haul a tree.
♪
[laughing]
There you are.
Hey, guys.
Put that big tree in the back.
Yeah, I picked out a real winner for ya.
Wow. Looks like you've got a good operation out here.
Yeah, well, just ask him.
He's... What, you worked here three winters in high school?
Everybody worked here in high school.
Wow.
My jobs in high school involved a lot more filing.
Ah.
I'm sure yours was more fun.
That's right.
(Katie) That smells amazing.
Terpenes.
Well, each year,
someone asks me why Christmas trees smell so nice.
So I went to the library, and guess what?
Terpenes.
The... the tree gives off this scent
to protect themselves from bugs and some people believe
that the scent floats up and seeds the clouds.
It brings snowfall.
Wait, is that true?
Well, leave the science to the scientists.
But all of it working together
in a circle like that, just imagine.
It's amazing.
Christmas trees. Who knew?
Henry knew.
Ah.
Ben, would you mind?
I've got a library book I need to return.
You bet.
Oh uh, I'll catch up to you guys.
-'Kay. -Okay.
Hi, Mom.
So how's the article coming?
Pretty good.
I'm actually at a...
Great, because I'm excited about it
and so is our editorial board.
But I'm calling to invite you to our Christmas party
at the magazine.
Mom.
I know, I know, I invite you every year
and every year you say the same thing.
Well, I like our Christmas traditions,
I like that we keep them small.
You're RSVP no again.
I understand.
So, when am I going to see something about this article?
You can expect an email with some first story ideas
within the next day.
I appreciate that.
Thank you, honey.
Thanks, Mom.
[laughing]
Henry picks these up from the tree lot
and brings them here to make wreaths.
Why do mine always turn out lopsided?
It's why Allie always hangs mine at the vet's office.
The cats don't seem to mind.
[laughs]
They're so cute. Thank you.
That sleigh is beautiful.
Yeah, we used to hook a couple of horses up to it
and take it through the town square.
All these years looking at the sleigh in the snow globe,
I always wondered if it was based on this one.
You should see if there's a key under it,
like the one in the snow globe.
What key?
I can look.
Underneath the miniature sleigh in the snow globe...
There's a key.
If there's one under there, then maybe I can...
Well, go for it.
Yeah, go for it.
I don't see a... Wait, hold on.
[metal clinks]
Wow! I can't believe that.
All these years.
What?
But this looks different than the one we found last year.
The one that got the church bells ringing again?
Yeah, but what does this one go to?
Oh!
I can't tell you how much I appreciate this, Elliot.
It's my pleasure.
Now all that's left is to let the glue dry,
then Megan says she'll help us get the glass blown.
You're a lifesaver.
[laughs]
I have so many fond memories.
Thomas and I, we would go on all kinds of treasure hunts.
Treasure hunts?
Yeah, well, my mom, she lost her wedding ring here.
Oh no.
Yeah.
We spent weeks looking for it.
Where'd you find it?
Never did.
No.
She ended up replacing it,
but she said the ring would be here
somewhere in the store, but...
Somewhere?
Um.
Should I call you when we're ready to take the next step?
The next step?
Yeah.
Oh, right.
Yes. Please. Do.
[laughs]
Okay.
Calvin Coolidge.
Was from Evergreen?
No. Plymouth, Vermont.
But he was the first American president to light
the national Christmas tree.
1923.
He ordered a balsam fir not too far from here.
Just a fun little fact.
Calvin Coolidge.
Super into Christmas trees.
Got it.
Is that your article?
Yeah.
Oh, it will be, yeah.
I like to get it down on paper first.
Ah. I am the same way.
Paper, pen, old school.
I just like the feel of it.
Yeah, but as I'm typing it and getting ready to send it out,
something about it just isn't working.
Do you mind if I print it again, see if I can figure it out?
Be my guest.
Thank you.
So, did you get the Christmas tree all set up?
Yep, all that's left is to decorate it.
And when will you be doing that?
Tomorrow sometime, if you'd like to help.
We're also going to clear off the pond for some ice skating
if you want to help with that.
Oh, no.
No, no, no, no.
What do you mean "no, no?"
You didn't even let me finish what I was saying.
They talk about this super cute, charming winter thing,
but then your feet are freezing and...
Mm-hmm. Okay.
What happened to the "let me explore everything in town
"so I can write about it" girl?
Using my words against me is low, but effective.
Can't promise winter sports, but decorating I can.
Oh, here.
Don't forget your bag.
Yes.
-Okay. -After you.
♪
Hey.
Good morning.
You're out here early.
Well, David insisted we take yet another look
at the Kringle Alley.
When I was a little girl,
my dad used to take his breaks from the bakery out here.
And sometimes I'd come out with my chalks
and I would write all over this wall.
He'd put a milk crate down and I would stand on it
and I would design the diner that I would have someday
when I grew up.
I would put the door right here, because see,
there's that little knot in the wood right there.
Oh.
Wait.
[gasps]
[tea pouring]
Yes, just a few more tweaks,
but I wanted to start fresh this morning.
Well, I can't wait to read it.
Mm-hmm.
...Except that I grabbed the wrong paper off the copier.
Oh, my goodness.
Sorry, what?
Oh, no.
Mom. I'm gonna have to call you back.
(Ben) Katie! Katie, come over here!
Huh?
What is going on?
I... I absolutely don't know.
I just walked up and everyone's talking about
there's something they've found, they found something?
Okay.
I don't know about all this, it's a long shot,
but I just have a feeling.
Come on.
[triumphant music] ♪
[gasping]
This is the...
The, the... Is it, is it?
Is this the time capsule?
Yes!
Finally.
I cannot tell you how many hints we had to drop,
and how perfectly we had to time this.
You knew about this?
We've been dropping hints for years.
What?
The timing had to be just right so that you'd all be curious...
...But not too curious.
Until today, December 1st, of this year.
Carol, Hannah, this was built by your parents 50 years ago,
during the Christmas blizzard.
(Nick) That storm lasted for weeks,
and since there's only one road in and out of town...
We were, for most of December,
hunkered down together.
(Nick) And after a while,
we were surprised to find we were really enjoying ourselves.
It was more like Christmas than it had ever been before.
It was so rare to have a town come together like that.
We read books aloud.
We talked, we laughed.
Well, since we had a lot of time on our hands...
(Nick) We decided to build a time capsule.
[old-time Christmas music] ♪
Why didn't you just tell us?
That was your father's idea.
He wanted us to lead you all to it
but then have you find it on your own.
And look at this.
It's not just a time capsule, it is 24 boxes.
It's an advent calendar.
Mm-hmm.
A Christmas countdown.
One box for each date between now and Christmas.
[laughs] Yeah!
I don't know if I've ever used the phrase "Christmas magic"
un-ironically in my entire life, but this, I mean...
Should we open the first box?
(All) Yeah!
Michelle.
Care to do the honours?
Come on, mayor.
I'm going to go help.
Okay.
"To the people of Evergreen.
"Now that you've found this calendar,
"it is our great hope that you will enjoy the gifts inside.
"The first being..."
Carol, this is from your mom and dad.
[tearfully] Really?
"The first being original Kringle recipes.
"We placed them here for our daughter Carol,
"so she's always has a part of us close.
"May the rest of you enjoy the Christmas surprises
"for the next 24 days.
"Merry Christmas, with love, Mark and Sue Fenwick."
[applause]
Guess I have some new recipes to try out.
So everybody come down to the café
and get some Christmas Kringles.
(All) Yes.
Ready?
You know what, I think I'm going to stay behind
and take a few more notes.
-All right. -It's amazing.
I'm going to go help with the lights.
Okay.
I'm the guy that puts lights up.
Yeah!
Stop by later.
Oh! Ben!
Wait!
♪
Uh, Ben, there is a paper that I left on the printer, that...
"Despite the warmth and honest connection
"these people feel,
"it's hard not to wonder how much of Evergreen is an act."
First of all, those are just notes,
and they're for my mom, who is also my editor.
I get it. I get how easy it is to say
look at those oddballs wandering around
a Christmas village.
That's not what I was doing.
Do you really think this is all an act?
You have to trust me.
I am not out to write a hit piece about your town.
Right.
[knocking at door]
Welcome, everybody. Welcome to story hour.
Please have a seat.
Hi, hi.
Hi Ben.
Get settled in and I promise to do my most hilarious voices.
Ben, I...
I should um, I should get in there.
Look, I really have enjoyed my time here.
Despite my vacation turning into a work trip,
I really like the peppermint hot cocoa
and the way the whole town rallies
to put up Christmas decorations, and I really like...
[sighs]
Write the article you want to write.
I hope it turns out.
Okay. Gather round.
This way.
Ha, ha.
[clears throat]
"Christmas Eve on the long, long day
"that was the 24th of December..."
Well, good morning everyone,
and thank you for coming out to see what is in our second box.
She's doing an excellent job of mayoring.
Don't you think?
Like she was born for it.
Now I know it's going to be hard to choose who's going to open
these boxes every day, but I have a plan for that.
Voting system.
That's what I'd do.
Nan has been so kind to lend us this beautiful snowman's hat.
It is from the original Evergreen hat factory.
So if you're interested in participating,
write your name down on a piece of paper and drop it in the hat.
So, each day, I will draw a different name from it.
But I think we can all agree that for the second box,
it should be opened by the two people who kept the secret
the longest, Nick and Nan.
[applause]
Ah!
Number 2.
There you go.
Yes, thank you.
Oh, I remember this.
We know there won't be enough for everyone,
but may you all enjoy the skating.
Inside this box are some Evergreen scarves
to keep you all warm.
Love Mike and Masha Stahl.
Well then.
Everyone, please remember that the volunteer fire department
is still clearing off the skating pond,
making sure everything's safe.
So we'll see everybody down there a little later on.
[Jazzy Christmas music] ♪
These decorations, Megan.
They're so beautiful.
Thank you.
Hot glass is like honey.
Coordination is key.
It's like a dance between heat, gravity, and centrifugal force.
So, where did you learn how to do this?
My mother taught me.
Okay. Time to put the globe
[together] back in snow globe.
I have never seen this process before,
it's absolutely mesmerizing.
Yeah.
♪
Oh, you're a natural at this.
[laughs] Well, I want it to be special,
just like the snow globe always was.
Hey.
Oh, hey.
Hey.
And ready?
Yep.
Now we let it cool and sand down the bottom.
Word is Daisy's Country Store
could use a little help with their tree.
Yeah! Let's go.
Okay. We'll see you tomorrow night.
Oh, the tree looks so good.
What do you think?
[barking]
[laughing]
I think he agrees.
[laughing] Yeah.
All right, guys.
Oh, my god.
[laughs]
Here you go.
Oh, thank you.
So.
You came here on vacation and ended up staying for good?
Yeah, I did.
It's the best decision I ever made.
Really?
Yeah.
And you don't, like, miss the, I don't know, the city
and that kind of life?
Oh yeah, I mean sometimes.
But you know what, to be honest with you,
I had to learn how to be surprised.
Like, for instance, I never thought in a million years
that I would be dating a guy
who essentially is running a logging camp.
Okay?
Or... or that I would own my own store,
or better yet, that I'd be hanging out
with these two little dogs
that I am probably most definitely keeping,
-Do not tell anybody that. -Oh, yeah.
All I'm saying is it's just been one big surprise after the next.
And that doesn't get exhausting?
Surprises?
Yeah.
No, no. Surprises are great.
I mean, think about it.
That's why we wrap gifts, right?
We don't just hand them to people.
Surprises are, you know, they're exciting.
I don't know, I think they add a little bit of magic.
Oh!
[laughs]
See, it gets your heart racing, doesn't it?
Actually, it did. It really did.
[whistling "Up On The Housetop"]
"Ben. Winter sports attempt at the skating pond?
"7:00 PM. Katie."
♪
Ready to give this a try?
I am telling you, no matter how many dance classes,
gymnastics, even rigorous pilates practice,
I am going to fall down.
[laughs]
So I was kind of tough on you yesterday.
Yeah, me too.
I'm sorry about that.
You really love this place.
I get why you'd be protective of it.
Yeah, but I also get if someone's not from here
how it would look.
And I don't believe that people who live in the city are...
Cynical.
Yeah.
Cold?
[laughs]
I love it, actually.
I used to live in the city.
Five years in Chicago.
So why did you leave?
-Oh, hey guys. -Hey.
Hey. Headed down to the ice?
Yes.
About to face my worst fears.
Are you joining us?
Uh, yeah.
I have to bring David his hat, he keeps forgetting it.
Usually Thomas brings it to him, but...
Michelle!
Thomas?
Thomas, what... You're early!
Well, I wanted to surprise you. Surprise!
Okay, Thomas, wait right there. Wait right there.
Come on, let's go.
Yeah.
[laughs]
Hey.
Hey!
Ohh.
I was worried you wouldn't make it.
Well, I almost didn't.
I got here right before they closed the roads.
Dad!
Hey!
[laughs]
You're back.
Wow, look at you, huh.
You're taller than when I saw you a few weeks ago.
[laughs]
Huh.
Who wants some hot chocolate?
-Me! -Me!
Come on.
[laughs]
There you go.
Told you I'm not very good at this.
Yeah, nobody's really good at it.
They are. They're great at it.
Yeah, they're pretty good at it, yeah.
Woah.
Woah!
You left Chicago because?
I needed a change.
I uh, was at a job I didn't love and I'd just gotten divorced.
Wow.
Breaking news.
So I came home for a visit and while I was there,
Nan broke her foot, so I stuck around to help her out
and figure out what was next after, so.
Begs the question, what is the dating scene like in Evergreen?
Is there a magical snow globe that comes out
at Valentine's Day too?
Are you kidding me?
We're still singing Christmas carols by then,
and we don't take our trees down until Easter.
Our dating scene is small, which is a shame,
because it's... it's fairly romantic around here.
Yeah.
It's a nice place to build a snowman with someone.
Sit by the fire after.
Sorry, you have a...
Oh!
-Great. -Great.
-Thank you. -Mmmhmm.
Henry Miller.
♪ I'm so happy that Santa's on his way ♪
♪ Been waitin' all year long for Christmas Day ♪
♪
♪ I feel alive when I look up to the sky ♪
♪ Knowing I might see him on his sleigh ♪
♪
♪ Soon I will see lots of presents by the tree ♪
♪ I think of all the joy that's on its way ♪
♪
♪ I dream of Santa's long white beard and reindeer ♪
♪ flying through the air I know it's almost time ♪
♪ for Christmas Day ♪
♪
Okay.
I added in the thing about Eisenhower inventing
the Christmas calendar.
Also mentioned that in addition to the tourism growth,
there's also been population growth,
and I think...
You're done.
And it's due tomorrow, but there's something
that doesn't feel quite right.
What, you're worried that they're not going to like it?
No, I think I'm afraid they will.
What? Their liking it is a bad thing?
I want to write my second novel, but it's harder.
Oh, when are you going to start working on that?
When I turn this in, I guess.
You know, what's interesting to me is
how many people have told me so many good stories.
I even talked to the twins that live on the farm
outside of town.
Twin Pines Farm, yeah.
So I guess I just need to do a final pass on this
tomorrow morning on the train.
Tomorrow?
That was my plan, yeah.
Yes.
So I guess, um... I should go get packed and... wow.
Wow!
[laughs]
Hi.
Hey.
Ah.
Well, you know, this is my mother's carolling scarf and...
and her angel pin.
The Christmas calendar has everyone so excited
about traditions that we even fired up a few from long ago.
Well you look, and that sounds amazing.
[laughs]
Thanks.
So I guess I should get back to the inn.
Oh, you know we're going to be carolling right that way.
Why don't you come and join us?
You should come.
Really? Okay, yeah sure.
Do I need to know all the words?
We know all of the words very well.
You can just hum along.
Okay, well I'll meet you outside.
I just need to re-shelf these.
Great.
So the secret is to get just the right mixture of water and oil.
And then, oh, I saw some white glitter somewhere in a jar.
Over there, would you mind looking in the bottom cabinet?
Yeah, sure.
Some of this stuff must be decades old.
Wait, do we think glitter goes bad?
Ha ha.
[laughing]
Oh.
I remember when my mom would use this stuff.
Okay, so... Just?
Yeah.
Nice.
Wow.
Oh, I think... I think a little bit more.
Okay.
Woah!
Elliot?
Woah.
We just found my mother's wedding ring.
Oh, ho, ho.
She must've lost it in here all these years ago.
Oh my gosh!
Elliot, we just found my mother's wedding ring!
I can't believe this!
I gotta go tell my brother about it and...
[romantic music] ♪
I...
I... I gotta go, I gotta go lead the carolling.
Now?
You should come.
No, uh... You don't want to hear me sing.
Yes I do. Come on.
It'll be fun.
It'll be fun, come on.
Okay.
[Jazzy version of "Up on the Housetop"] █ ♪
♪ Up on the house top, reindeer pause ♪
♪ Out jumps good ol' Santa Claus ♪
♪ Down through the chimney with lots of toys ♪
♪ All for the little ones, Christmas joys ♪
♪ Ho, Ho, Ho!
♪ Who wouldn't go?
♪ Ho, Ho, Ho!
♪ Who wouldn't go?
♪ Up on the housetop, click, click, click ♪
♪ Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick ♪
[laughing]
Thank you very much.
Look at how crispy.
I think they're done. █
Crispy.
Oh, they're good.
[laughs]
So many people I interviewed said the same thing.
They came here for Christmas and Evergreen captured their hearts.
They stayed forever.
You could stick around too, you know.
Oh, I'm looking forward to spending Christmas with my mom.
I think it's just, if we start changing our traditions,
do they then become less... special?
Like, the ones we always have?
No, not as long as you keep some of them.
You know, the ones that you really love.
Mm.
Yeah.
Our traditions are amazing?
Really?
Yes.
We watch Christmas movies and we have these blueberry pancakes
from this restaurant in town, we have them all season long.
So good.
You want to know a secret?
Hm?
The day I met you on the train,
I had just come from a job interview.
I just applied on a whim.
How did it go?
Terrible.
It was the worst.
All my bylines were too old.
Well, are you going to try again?
Oh, no.
We need a fire extinguisher.
[laughing]
The other day I was walking by the library.
and the town tree was up.
It was snowing a little bit.
I just heard "Do You Hear What I Hear."
You know that's my favourite song.
And you know, I thought to myself,
why am I so happy?
And then I saw you.
And it hit me.
I realized I had fallen completely head over heels
in love with you.
I think I fell in love with you the moment I saw you.
♪
You could... stay.
I mean, for a day.
Like, you could stay
and find out what's missing from your article.
Stay in Evergreen another day?
Yeah.
I can do that.
♪
So, once I started reading my Dad's recipes,
I changed just a few little things.
I never thought I would learn so much about Kringles,
but I am so glad I did.
Thank you.
Thank you so much for doing this interview.
Dun-dun-dun-dun!
[joyful squealing]
Ahhh! It's perfect!
Thank you.
Whew!
[laughing]
Well, that was determined.
Can't help knowing what it is I want, I guess.
Um, I'll catch up with you later.
Okay.
[door bells jingle]
Oh, Allie would've loved this.
Everyone ready to open another calendar box?
Yes!
Yeah.
Get your coats, let's go.
Get our coats.
Yes!
Good as new.
Mmmhmm.
Yay!
Thank you again, thank you, thank you.
Of course.
What a relief.
I know, right?
Yeah.
[sighs]
Okay, you. I've made a few wishes in the past,
and they've sort of come true
and then kept not working out, so...
Just surprise me.
[magical music] ♪
[laughs]
Wait up, guys!
Katie.
[cheering]
I didn't even put my name in there.
That's the name that came out.
Go get 'em!
Good luck.
Okay, 15!
[applause]
"Dear Evergreenians,
"one of the nicest gifts of building this calendar
"was how nice it was to spend time together.
"And so, today's gift is a little bit different.
"Whoever opens today's box should name the Christmas activity
"they love the most, but do the least.
"It's our humble request that the whole town spend
"a few hours together doing that activity."
Okay, that's a lot of pressure.
I don't know, that red letter does look legally binding.
There is one thing I really love doing,
and definitely not often enough.
-Ready? -Yeah.
You got it?
Okay, there's the middle.
Looks great.
I've gotta hand it to you, Katie.
Building a snowman as a whole town?
Great way to spend the morning.
Ah, it used to be my favourite thing.
I would run down to Prospect Park
at the first sign of the snowfall.
Oh, I haven't done it in years.
Hey, do you want to help me roll the head?
Definitely.
Look at that.
Ooh, it turned out to be a... a beautiful day, huh?
Ezra?
Yeah.
I've never seen you like this.
It's like you're floating.
I am factually very happy.
One day, Lisa introduced me to someone,
and wham, I'm moving to Boston.
My long distance romance is two blocks away,
and all because I took a little risk.
[chuckles]
Oh.
Heads will roll!
Do you ever wonder how much risk is too much?
Well, what's too much?
I mean, even if you don't know how something is going to end,
it's worth a try.
Hey.
Hmm?
What?
Merry Christmas.
What's this?
It's an early present.
It's a little early for...
I found it.
[laughs]
I think Mom would've wanted you to have it.
You know, just in case you were thinking of,
oh, I don't know, using it sometime or other.
So, who's got the carrot?
Always have to have one handy.
Oh.
You, um, glad you stayed?
Yeah, I am.
Doesn't make it any easier to leave, though.
You okay?
Yeah.
Yeah, absolutely. Just uh, just cold.
[laughs]
Thanks so much for choosing this, Katie.
This has been great.
Thank all of you.
You really know how to make a girl feel at home,
and as much as I would love to miss my train,
I have to go.
Bye.
Merry Christmas!
[laughing]
Bye.
Merry Christmas!
Thank you!
[gentle piano music] ♪
[clapping]
Sorry, I was, uh, just...
It was beautiful.
I didn't know you could play so well.
I figured you've spent so much time at the art centre,
I thought maybe I should help out with the choir.
You're incredible.
[laughs]
Hey uh, do you remember this one?
[plays bouncy melody] ♪
Do I? Hold on.
[playing "Oh Christmas Tree"] ♪
[laughs]
[sighs]
I don't know how to say this, so I'm just going to say it.
I like you.
A lot.
You're on my mind all the time.
I like you too, Hannah.
[laughs]
I've been wanting to tell you that for a long time,
and I just, I didn't know how.
[laughs]
Oh.
This is...
[sighs]
You're my best friend.
What if things don't work out?
What happens if they do?
Then...
How about we start with some hot cocoa?
It's a date.
[laughs]
I said that to you! Oh, my g...
Look, if you ever make it to New York, maybe...
Yeah. Definitely.
Or if you're ever back in Evergreen,
you want to spend a Christmas here.
Don't I have to come back
for the snowman building event next year?
Yes, you do.
If we weren't in such different places in our lives,
like such different actual locations,
maybe we would be...
Sitting by a fire after building a snowman?
Thank you.
Merry Christmas, Ben.
Merry Christmas, Katie.
♪
[train whistle blows]
All aboard Evergreen Express fr New York Penn Station.
♪ [J█
♪
Mom?
I came to talk to you about your article.
As my mom, or as my editor?
Ah, a little of both.
Hi honey!
Hi.
You bought a tree and all of these decorations?
I did, and have a look at these ornaments.
[gasps]
You saved them.
I did.
This is from when I was little.
Some I collected, and some...
Oh, this you made.
Oh!
You know, I keep trying to think of a way to turn this story
into something I can print, but...
And I think you should print it, but not in the magazine.
Honey, those characters.
The town vet who stayed because she found love,
the woman who moved there to run the general store?
Mm-hmm.
And those competing anxious mayors.
I know.
But you know, it wasn't meant to be about...
I know.
And don't worry, I already have my eyes out on another article.
The point is, you were looking for inspiration
for your next novel,
and honey, I think you found it.
So is the invitation still open to your office Christmas party?
It is.
'Cause you know I'm coming.
[laughs]
That's great, honey.
-Hi. -Hi.
-Strangest thing. -Hm?
Just got requested to interview for that job.
Oh.
The one you left on the printer.
Yeah.
Huh.
Except, I never actually applied for it.
Ooh, that is strange.
Mmmhmm.
Nan.
Mm?
Did you send it?
Yes.
Mm-hmm.
It was me, I clicked send.
I am not prepared.
I haven't written anything serious.
Well, then you better dust some off and get started.
Ben, you know this library is my dream.
It's something I've...
I've wanted to do for everyone my entire life.
And you get it from me.
I get what from you?
The part that makes you want to stay here with me and help me.
But Ben, you only owe me
that you live the life you want lived.
If I even think about leaving,
who's going to watch over the?...
Me, me.
I'll watch over the place, and...
and no, I know, I can't do it by myself, but this is Evergreen.
I bet you we can find someone.
Ah!
Okay, okay.
Okay. Okay.
[Jazzy Christmas music] ♪
♪ I'm filling up my Christmas list ♪
♪ With gifts for girls and boys ♪
♪ There's frilly things and candy dreams ♪
♪ And every kind of toy ♪
♪ The tree is set up twinkling ♪
♪ with my favourite kind of lights ♪
♪ And faces glow 'cause children know ♪
♪ that Santa soon will fly ♪
♪ All around this happy town, good tidings fill the air ♪
♪ Because everyone knows through the falling snow ♪
♪ A sleigh will soon appear ♪
♪
[text alert]
♪ I'm filling up my Christmas list ♪
♪ My favourite time of year ♪
♪ For Christmas will soon be here ♪
♪
Wow!
What?
Hi, Ben.
Katie, you look so beautiful.
Oh, look at you!
Thank you.
So this is it.
The famous ramping up to Christmas place
that has blueberry pancakes all day long.
Yes, and you owe it to yourself to try them.
I might be one step ahead of you.
[gasps]
Oh!
Thank you.
See?
Huh, look at that.
That's what I'm saying.
So.
You're applying for jobs in the city.
How was your interview?
I think it went pretty great.
You see, I've got this friend who's really got
quite the career in freelancing,
and I might've been just a little bit inspired by her.
How's the Christmas calendar?
It's good.
There's still three days left till the end,
everyone's still really excited about it.
But the Cooper sisters, they're giving free piano lessons,
it's a whole big thing.
Wow.
Yeah.
What about you?
I don't know, something about this Christmas feels...
Different.
Really? Anything I can do?
When does your train leave?
Right after this,
I'm going to make sure I could see you.
Well, can you take a later one, come to this thing with me?
What is "this thing?" What is the thing?
[Jazzy version of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" plays] ♪
Hi. Good to see you.
Can I ask you something?
Of course.
That article that you spent so much time writing.
I haven't read it yet.
When does it come out?
It's not, actually.
Turns out it wasn't right after all.
But I'm working on something new.
Great. I'd love to read it.
Maybe we could swap.
I figured, what the heck.
I'd give it a try, right?
And did some interviews, talked to people.
This is a great angle!
Yeah?
Yeah!
An entire town run by female business owners?
I'm kind of bummed I didn't think of it myself.
You should run this at your new job.
I actually just got an email from them about a half hour ago.
I didn't get it.
Oh, Ben...
I know.
I'm so sorry.
Yeah.
But you know, there are a lot of other jobs out there.
Yeah, I'll try again after... after the new year.
I should, I should probably get going.
Okay.
(Katie) Well, come on.
I'll walk you past my favourite enormous Christmas tree.
(Ben) Okay.
(Katie) It's right on the way.
(Ben) Okay.
You were right, that tree has a lot of lights.
This is one of my favourite things
about living in this city.
So here we are again.
About to say goodbye and I'm on my way to a train.
Yeah.
Should we say some confusing things about our feelings
before we walk away again?
Sorry about that, I just...
Got caught up in spending time with you.
It's okay.
I think in a lot of ways, no matter where you are,
some people just feel like...
Home?
Are you sure you don't want to come back?
I can't leave my mom at Christmas.
Are you sure you don't want to stay?
As much as I could see myself here,
I haven't missed a Christmas in Evergreen yet.
[sighs] Merry Christmas, Ben.
[clears throat]
Merry Christmas, Katie.
♪ ...And a partridge in a pear tree ♪
[cheering and applause]
Okay.
So, tonight is our Christmas Eve pick.
Hannah!
[laughing]
[applause]
All right.
Let's see.
Hmm!
And... Oh.
What could this be?
Let's see here.
[laughs]
"Dear Evergreen.
As the mayor of Evergreen, I..."
Ezra, would you like to read this?
As outgoing mayor, I think it's only right that you do.
I'm fine.
Ezra, get over here.
[applause]
Ezra! Woo!
Dear Evergreen.
As the mayor of Evergreen,
I have been granted the honour
of bestowing both of today's gifts.
In this box, you will find savings bonds,
hopefully having now matured these 50 years.
50 years?
Well, that must be a lot.
Wow.
It's hard to say,
but I think our town budget just increased considerably.
[laughs]
Did you know about this?
I most definitely did not.
"Help the needy.
"Welcome all travellers to Evergreen.
"Just as the old saying goes, when you have so much,
"you build a bigger table."
And hopefully build more than one road in and out of town.
Yeah.
"We want to be sure you all get to spend Christmas mornings
"with your families.
"And so, we have officially started a Christmas festival
"to be held on Christmas Eve each year."
[applause]
"Tonight on what we hope will be the 50th anniversary
"of that festival,
"you are to open the final green envelope
"with as much of the town present as you can muster."
[cheering] All right! Yeah!
Another tune, everyone!
♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way... ♪
You know what? Don't give up.
I have a feeling things may work out.
Merry Christmas, Ben.
Meet our new part-time employee.
Nick?
When Nan mentioned the library budget was expanding
to add part-time help,
I thought it'd be a nice way to spend some more time here.
In Evergreen.
Yes. In Evergreen.
[laughs] Okay.
And this way, Ben, you would have more time to write.
Where is everyone?
Are we not having story hour today?
Oh, we have someone, but um, we decided,
since it was Christmas Eve,
that it would be nicer to have story hour
at the Christmas Festival.
Okay. That... that sounds great.
But who's reading the story?
Hmm.
"...and Effie fell asleep with a happy smile on her lips,
"her one humble gift still in her hand
"and a new love for Christmas in her heart
"that never changed
"through a long life spent in doing good."
The end.
[applause]
Merry Christmas!
(Children) Merry Christmas!
(Children) Hi Ben!
Hi, guys.
What are you doing here?
Well, someone had to read them Louisa May Alcott.
Did you know that she also wrote "A Christmas Carol"?
Mmmhmm.
I came back for you, Ben.
I just kept writing about Evergreen
and the more I was writing about it,
the more I kept falling in love with you.
I didn't...
[romantic music] ♪
Does that mean you're staying here?
For Christmas, yes.
Look, the city will always be my home.
Probably.
But I wanted to spend Christmas here with my mom and you.
Well, it is pretty special... Hi!
There might be something else.
Hi.
You were right about this cocoa, Katie.
Right?
It's incredible.
What else? There's something else?
Um, Ben, I really enjoyed your article
on the Evergreen female-owned businesses.
Wait, you read my article?
On the train.
And while I have a few notes, I really would like to run it,
if you wouldn't mind.
[laughs]
Wow, really?
Yes.
That'd... wow.
And I'd also like you to come interview at the magazine
in the new year.
Um... I don't know what to say.
Yes.
Yes!
Say yes.
Thank you.
Hey, Hannah.
I saw the snow globe.
You and Elliot did a wonderful job.
And I'm sure it's still full of magic.
Thanks, Nick.
You know, it's the funniest thing.
I'm kind of glad I dropped it.
Everything that's happened since has been a wonderful surprise.
Some things just take a little nudge.
[laughs]
Nudge? Wait.
Nick?
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a happy new year
Hi everybody. Merry Christmas!
(All) Merry Christmas!
So before we open the final gift,
I would love it if you all would raise a glass and join me
in thanking Ezra Green for all of his years of service
as the mayor of Evergreen.
To Ezra.
(Crowd) To Ezra!
Yeah, Ezra!
Are you ready?
Ready.
And since he discovered the entire calendar,
we decided that the person who would open the last gift
would be David!
[applause]
Get up here.
How's that? Fit good?
Yeah.
Okay.
Oh, uh, Michelle?
We forgot to ask.
Ask what?
Ask you to marry me, Michelle.
[gasps]
You are without a doubt the most beautiful,
special woman I have ever met,
and I knew that the moment I first laid eyes on you.
Yes!
[laughs]
I mean, I haven't asked yet.
I know, yes!
Will you marry me?
Yes, I will!
[laughing] Yes.
[gasps]
[cheering and applause]
Oh, um, David, uh, continue!
What does it say?
It says "Now fill the boxes back up,
"seal up the wall,
"and send a Merry Christmas to Evergreen, 50 more years."
[cheering]
♪ Said the night wind to the little lamb ♪
♪ Do you see what I see ♪
♪ Way up in the sky little lamb ♪
♪ Do you see what I see
♪ A star, a star
♪ Dancing in the night
♪ With a tail as big as a kite ♪
[barking]
♪ Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy ♪
♪ Do you hear what I hear ♪
♪ Ringing through the sky shepherd boy ♪
♪ Do you hear what I hear ♪
(Katie) A few days after Christmas,
those of us who were leaving Evergreen
bound for new adventures boarded the Evergreen Express.
It's only an interview.
Oh, I want you to do the very best job you can.
Of course.
Okay.
Hi.
Hi!
You made it.
-Bye. -Bye, sweetie.
Have a good trip.
Oh, thank you.
-Bye! -Bye.
Thank you all.
See you.
Bye.
Okay.
(Katie) And those who were just staying behind,
well, they just kept celebrating.
Did you make this?
I did.
Oh!
Do you like it?
I love it.
Look.
Ben moved to the city a few months later,
and I wrote a book about a town in Vermont
where a veterinarian found love in her hometown
and a designer re-opened the general store.
And now I am hard at work on another story for next year
about twin pine trees, twin sisters,
and, well, that's another Christmas in Evergreen.
[romantic music] ♪
█
♪ We want some snow globe wishes ♪
♪ And we want them right now. ♪
♪ We won't leave until we make some ♪
♪ And we're wishing right now. ♪