This program is rated G
and is suitable for
general audiences.
[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, h* h* h*.
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 g*y 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 rumor 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-
Demeanor, 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 h*, 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!
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...
h*, h*, h*!
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]
♪
[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.
Woah.
We just found my mother's
wedding ring.
Oh, h*, h*.
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 ♪
♪ h*, h*, h*!
♪ Who wouldn't go?
♪ h*, h*, h*!
♪ 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.
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!
Merry Christmas!
Thank you!
[gentle piano music]
♪
[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.
♪
♪
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.
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]
♪
[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.
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 ♪
♪ We wish you a merry
Christmas ♪
♪ 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 ♪
♪ With a tail as big
as a kite ♪
[barking]
♪ Said the little lamb
to the shepherd boy ♪
♪ Do you hear
what I hear ♪
♪ Do you hear
what I hear ♪
♪ Ringing through the sky
shepherd boy ♪
♪ Do you hear
what I hear ♪
♪ 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 ♪
♪ We want some
snow globe wishes ♪
♪ We want some
snow globe wishes ♪
♪ And we want them right now. ♪
♪ We won't leave until
we make some ♪
♪ We won't leave
until we make some ♪
♪ We won't leave
until we make some ♪
♪ And we're wishing right now. ♪
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