Original subtitles

This program is rated G and is suitable for general audiences.

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... Excuse me, I can take it from here if that's okay.

Oh, by all means, be my guest.

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.

I'm so sorry. I was just looking for a plug.

Well, good luck with that. This train's been running long before

anyone needed a plug in India.

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.

Wow. I've been reading a lot about it. It's getting a lot of press.

Mm -hmm. 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

magically reappear at the first snowfall?

Like Brigadoon? Yes.

No. They're the next town over, but they're a competition because we do

musical numbers than them. But our football team's better.

I'm Ben Baxter.

Hi. Katie Connell. Nice to meet you.

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 the scenery.

Well, you're in luck, because scenery we do have.

Wow!

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 center of town is pretty much that way, and that's where all the

takes place.

All right. Okay. Well, I guess, uh, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Oh, my goodness. Wow.

Welcome to Evergreen.

Oh.

Hey, Mom.

Katie, hi.

You made it okay?

I did.

Smells like pine.

There's light snow falling.

Not gonna 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

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

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 don't think I can right now. Take a few hours and see if

an idea occurs to you.

Hello? Mom?

Are you there? Hello?

Oh.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly.

It is the season to be jolly.

Donning now our gay apparel from the ancient Yuletide carol.

See the blazing yule before us.

Strive to hop and join the chorus.

Follow me in merry measure.

Well, I tell of Yuletide treasure.

Excuse me. Hi.

I was just looking for a... Wow.

Fifty 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 the tradition and hang in 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. How's that?

Well, if it were perfect, it wouldn't be charming.

Katie, the store is right over there. 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.

Oh, well, I hope you guys are going to love being with your foster mom.

And if you need anything while I'm gone, Dr. Myers in Montpelier.

He'll handle all your patients. He'll help deliver the cows and then go into

labor. We got it. We got it. Yeah. 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

I know. I've just never been out of Evergreen for Christmas, and it's going

be tough thinking about it with my parents later. And you always talk about

big the world is and how you want to go see it. So seriously, Allie, go be with

Ryan and Zoe. 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. A thousand percent.

Excuse me.

Hi. Hi.

Sorry, here.

Hi. Welcome to Daisy's Country Store. Thank you.

I'm actually looking for a charger.

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

there? Are they right?

Hannah made those hats.

Yeah. And they're so cute.

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.

Actual tourist.

Well, careful now. A lot of people come in here as tourists and end up as

residents. Yeah, that's true.

Actual residents.

I'll go get you that charger. Thank you.

Do you guys happen to have directions to Barbara's country inn?

Yeah.

I'm dropping off decorations over there. Do you want to look?

Are you sure?

Welcome to Evergreen. People are a lot friendlier than you'd imagine.

Yeah. All right. Here is the charger.

Here are the decorations. Okay.

And the hats on me.

Wow.

Thanks. You guys really are nice.

Thank you. Come on. Bye. Thank you.

It's a terrible way to run a business. Whatever.

Be nice.

Christmas.

Just in time to turn on the lights. Yeah, well, at least I have some

for you. Katie, this is Elliot. He runs the art center in town.

I told you I'd like to keep calling it the Turner Tinker Shop.

It's really sweet of you, but it's an art center, too.

I mean, the Turner Tinker Shop used to be my parents' store where people went

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 ceiling 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

things that people aren't sure actually exists.

Ah, 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?

Where's his friend?

Oh. Sorry, I just, the banter and the back and forth and just the overall

demeanor, it felt okay.

You know, oh, we should get you checked in. Yeah. Megan?

Get me to check in. Okay.

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

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,

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.

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, at this time of the year... Not my favorite

Christmas story, but it is crowd -pleaser.

Louisa May Alcott was much better.

Now, Ebenezer... Can I help you find anything in particular? Yes, actually,

um... Looking for some local history?

Oh, yes, yes. We have a whole section of Vermonters from Rudy

Vallee to Alison Bechdel, Robert Frost, Ben and Jerry.

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 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... Because on the train, I wasn't.

But with all the Christmas goings -on and this rumored time capsule... Oh, you

should see our choir.

These articles people write, they make us all seem like we're just a bunch

Oh, my grandson is very protective of Evergreen, and I keep telling him

Evergreen is a town who takes pride in what it is.

Hi. David.

Hi, Ben. Hi, Mrs. Baxter.

Hi. David, you're early.

Karen wanted to know if it was okay to have today's meeting.

At the Kringle kitchen.

So she can see Ali off. Oh, it depends. I don't know if Nan can spare me. Oh, of

course I can. Go off to your stuffy old historical society meeting.

And 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.

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.

That's a Kringle kitchen.

Oh, hey!

24 hours in Evergreen and I'm already joining society.

Oh, is this the famous snow globe?

It is. Want to make a wish? Yes, thanks.

I know there's a second book in my snow globe.

Don't let me down.

Magic. I hope so.

Shall 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.

I'm not entirely sure just yet what I'm writing about, but I'm taking a few

notes. Thank you.

I keep hearing about the time capsule.

Oh, we haven't talked about that for a while.

But maybe some fresh ice can help us figure it out. And now we have two

journalists for the price of one.

Who then has a journalism degree, wrote for a paper in Chicago before coming

back here and working here? 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

shop. Which is also the town arts center.

Yes.

When we were kids, We'd always hear them 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'll know one day.

And then a few years ago, we found this archive of newspapers and found

this article.

Yes, the Christmas blizzard.

Fifty years ago, a blizzard kept everyone in town for almost the entire

December. If you read right there.

Some residents of Evergreen also packed 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 really nobody 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?

Well, let's start the meeting and talk about our plans for... Oh, that's Allie.

It's our daughter.

Michelle is driving her to the... We can be brave about this.

Probably.

Allie! Allie! Oh, honey! The great world...

Tell Ryan and Zoe 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, we love you.

Love you, baby.

Love you. Merry Christmas.

Have such a good time. Thank you. I'll bring you some croissants. Please.

Thank you.

Have a great adventure.

I'm sure you'll have easy travels and all kinds of fun Christmas surprises.

Thank you, Nick.

All right, moment of truth.

I guess the truck says we're a go.

Yay!

Enjoy your Noel.

Merry Christmas.

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... North Pole?

Burlington. He comes for December.

Look, I get it.

Even alleyways are decorated for Christmas.

But it makes sense. I'm for it.

You have to put on a good show.

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?

I

was

just trying to make a wish.

I'm partially to blame myself. I bumped into Hannah and... No.

No, I should have had a better grip on it. I'm so sorry, guys. Accidents

No, this globe has been an evergreen tradition, and now... Now we'll just

on getting it fixed. Yeah.

Do you think Elliot might be able to do something about it? Let's wait the shot.

I should probably get back to the library and check on Nan.

So you're... You're masquerading as a mild -mannered librarian, when

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? Yeah.

But it also means you're good at your job.

I used to be a journalist, and I was actually pretty good at it, didn't 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.

Follow -up questions.

Hey, so if I wanted to know about the town history, who would I ask?

That would be David.

Oh. That kids 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.

So, what were you wishing for?

Oh, I've had a complicated relationship with this globe.

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 color. It evokes the 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...

Yeah. Oh.

Do you think you can fix it?

Absolutely.

Let's see what we got.

Okay, let's have a look at this.

Well, the two pine trees are intact.

That's good.

The horse is fine.

There's a little key carved under the sleigh.

But... Why?

I'll get to work on this right away. Great. If you'd like to help, you can

by tomorrow.

Yeah.

It's a date.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Okay.

See you tomorrow. Bye. Bye, David.

Bye.

Oh, Megan, I have something for you.

Look at this.

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. Thank you.

How is the article going?

Tricky. 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

capsule.

Well...

I guess. Ho, ho, ho.

I was beginning to think you weren't coming.

Oh, we wouldn't miss it. It's my favorite tradition.

Well, with more guests coming for this weekend, I'm going to need my first

of cookies.

If you'd like to help, we can always use more hands.

Oh, I... Hey, everybody.

Yeah, sure, I would love to help.

Yeah, cookie time.

Ah, David, I found a few new news clippings in the archive, and I know

another search.

Oh. Maybe this will be helpful.

Wow.

Thank you, Mrs. Baxter.

Yeah. You're welcome.

No room?

No problem.

I picked up a perfect... tree for out in front of the library oh great yeah if

you come by tomorrow yeah yeah great i'll ask canna for the truck and and uh

by sometime tomorrow yeah it's getting busy out there so okay awesome people

come from miles around to see the folksy charm of henry miller's

christmas tree farm wow you're just writing that article right in front of

am that good

There's a chill in the air, so crisp and so fresh that Frosty himself would be

proud. There's a cheer everywhere for times 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

It's the time, what a time, the most magical time of the 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.

You make sure to share, though. Man, I can drive you home. 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 than to see it for myself, right?

You say it's authentic.

I say prove it.

Okay. Fine. Tomorrow, then.

Right here.

Okay.

Come on in.

Morning, everyone.

I was just at the library looking for you.

I've been going through these things Nan found.

Look.

Do you know where Grandma and Grandpa are standing?

I've never seen that mirror before.

Where'd you get this?

It was in a stack of papers Nan brought me.

That's Pringle Alley.

Right outside.

You can see the old bakery sign in the photo. It's where I parked the cocoa

cart.

Wow, this truck really makes it around.

He may not look like it or act like it, but he's one of the more reliable things

in town.

I'm sorry.

He?

Yeah, Ellie's truck.

She loans them 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

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.

There you are. Hey, guys. Put that big tree in the back. Yeah, I picked out a

real winner for you. Wow.

Looks like you've got a good operation out here.

Yeah. I always 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.

I'm sure yours was more fun.

That's right.

It smells amazing.

Terrapines.

Well, each year someone asks me why Christmas trees smell so nice, so I went

the library, and guess what?

Yeah, the tree gives off this scent to protect themselves from bugs, and some

people believe that the scent floats up and sees the clouds, brings snowfall.

Wait, is that true?

Well, I leave the science to the scientists. But all of it working

circle like that, just imagine.

That's amazing.

Christmas trees.

How new.

Henry New.

Ben, would you mind? I've got a library book I need to return.

You bet.

Oh, I'll catch up to you guys. Okay.

So how's the article coming?

It's 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

You're our SVP? 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.

Henry picked these up from the tree lot and brings them here to make reeds.

Why do mine always turn out lopsided?

Why, Allie always hangs mine at the vet's office.

The cats don't seem to mind.

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 this 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.

Wow.

I can't believe that. All these years.

What?

But this... 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?

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, and then Megan says she'll help us

get the glass blown.

You're a lifesaver.

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.

Should I call you when we're ready to take the next step?

The next step?

Yeah. Oh, right. Yeah. Please.

Do.

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 for 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.

Oh, 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

Be my guest. Thank you.

So, did you get the Christmas tree all set up? Yep. All that's left is

decorating.

And, uh...

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

that. Oh, no.

No, no, no, no. Hey, no, no. You didn't even let me finish.

We'll talk about this super cute, charming winter thing, but then your

freezing.

Okay. What happened to the let me explore everything in town so I can

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. Oh, 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 chucks and I went right 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.

Yes, just a few more tweaks, but I wanted to start fresh this morning.

Well, I can't wait to read it.

Except that I grabbed the wrong paper off the copier.

Sorry,

what? Oh, no.

Mom, I'm going to have to call you back.

Katie.

Katie, come over here.

What is going on? I absolutely don't know. I just walked up and I'm talking

about it. There's something they 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.

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.

But 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.

Oh, Carol.

Hannah.

This was built by your parents 50 years ago during the Christmas blizzard. That

storm lasted for weeks. And since there's only one road in and out of

were, for most of December, hunkered down together.

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, we decided to build a time

capsule.

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, a Christmas countdown. One box for each

between now and Christmas.

I don't know if I've ever used the phrase Christmas magic unironically in

entire life. But this, I mean... Should we open the first box?

Yeah. Michelle?

Care to do the honor?

Come on, Mayor.

I'm going to go out.

Okay.

To the people of Evergreen, now that you've found this calendar, it is our

hope that you will enjoy the gifts inside.

The first being... Carol, this is from your mom and dad.

Really?

The

first...

being original Kringle recipes.

We placed them here for our daughter, Carol, so she always has a part of us

close. May the rest of you enjoy the Christmas surprises for the next 24

Merry Christmas with love, Mark and Sue Fenwick.

I have some new recipes to try out. So I'm going to get them down to the cafe

and get some Christmas Pringles. Yeah.

Really? You know what? I think I'm going to stay behind and take a few more

notes. All right.

I'm going to go help with the lights. I'm the guy that puts lights up. Yeah.

Stop by later.

Oh, Ben.

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. No, 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.

Write it.

Welcome, everybody.

Welcome to Story Hour. Please, have a seat. Hi. Hi.

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...

Write the article you want to write.

I hope it turns out.

Okay, gather around.

This way.

Ha ha.

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 marrying, 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 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

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

two people who kept the secret the longest, Nick and Nan.

Oh, number two. There you go.

Thank you.

Oh, I remember this.

We know there won't be enough for everyone,

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 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.

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 back in snow globe.

I have never seen this process before. It's absolutely mesmerizing. Yeah.

Oh, you're a natural at this.

Well, I want it to be special, just like the snow globe always was.

Hey. Oh, hey.

Hey. Cool.

And, ready?

Yep. 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.

Whoa, the tree looks so good.

What do you think?

I think he agrees. Yeah.

All right, guys. Oh, my gosh.

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. 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'm probably most

definitely things about oh, yeah It's just been one big surprise after the

And that doesn't get exhausting?

Surprises? Yeah.

No, no. Surprises are great. I mean, think about it. That's why we wrap

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!

See,

it gets your heart racing, doesn't it?

Actually, it did.

It really did.

Then winter sports attempt at the skating pond 7 p .m.. Katie

Ready

to give this a try I am

telling you, no matter how many dance classes, gymnastics, even vigorous

practice, I'm going to fall down.

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?

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.

Hey.

I was worried you wouldn't make it. Well, I almost didn't. I got here right

before they closed the door.

Dad!

Hey!

You're back.

Wow, look at you, huh? You're taller than when I saw you a few weeks ago.

Who wants some hot chocolate?

Me! I told you I'm not

very good at this.

Nobody's very good at this.

They are. They're great at it. Yeah, they're pretty good at it.

Mm -hmm.

Whoa.

Whoa.

You left Chicago because?

I needed a change.

I was at a job I didn't love, and I had 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's next after, so... Back to the question.

What does a dating scene like in Evergreen? Is there a magical snow globe

comes out at Valentine's Day, too?

Are you kidding me? We're still seeing Christmas carols by then. And we didn't

take our trees down until Easter.

Our dating scene is small, which is a shame because it's fairly romantic

here. Yeah.

Nice place to build a snowman with someone.

Sit by the fire after.

Sorry, you have that.

Oh.

Great. Great.

Thank you.

on his way Been waiting all year long for Christmas Day

I feel alive when I look up to the sky

Knowing I might see him on his way Soon

I will see lots of presents by the tree Think of all the joy

that's on its way

Okay. Okay, I...

Added in the thing about Eisenhower inventing the Christmas calendar.

Also mentions that in addition to the tourism growth, there's also the

population growth.

And I think... You're done.

I mean, it's due tomorrow, but there's something that doesn't feel quite right.

What, are you worried they're not going to like it?

No, I think I'm afraid they will.

What, they're liking it? Is it 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

stories. I even talked to the twins that live on that 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 I should go get packed.

Wow. Wow.

Hi. Hi.

Well, you know, this is my mother's caroling scarf 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.

Thanks.

So I guess I should get back to the inn.

Oh, you know, we're going to be caroling 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 reshuffle. Great.

So the secret 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?

I remember when my mom would use this

stuff.

Jeff?

Yeah.

Oh,

I think... I think a little bit more.

Whoa.

Elliot?

Whoa.

Whoa. We just found my mother's wedding ring.

She was still out there in here all these years ago. Oh, my gosh.

Ellie, we just found my brother's wedding ring. I can't believe this.

I've got to go tell my brother about it.

I gotta go. I gotta go lead the caroling.

How?

You should come.

No, I... You don't want to hear my thing. Yes, I do. Come on. It'll be

It'll be fine. Come on. Okay.

Down through the chimney, he bought the toy.

All the little ones, Rick and his toy.

Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go?

Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go?

Up on the top, click, click, click.

Down through the chimney, it was the same thing.

Thank you. Look at how crispy they are. I think that's done. Crispy. Oh, that's

right.

Many people I interview said the same thing.

They came here for Christmas, and evergreen captured their hearts. They

forever. You could stick around, too, you know.

Well, I'm looking forward to spending Christmas with my mom.

I think if we start changing our traditions, do they then become

less special, like the ones we always have?

Not as long as you keep some of them, you know, the ones that you really love.

Our traditions are amazing.

Really? Yeah.

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?

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.

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 favorite song.

And, you know, I thought to myself, why am I so happy?

Then I saw you.

It hit me.

I realized I'd 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. You could stay and find out what's missing from your

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 Pringles, but I am so glad I did.

Thank you. Thank you so much for doing the interview.

Perfect!

Thank you!

Well,

that was determined.

Can't help knowing what it is I want, I guess.

I'll catch up to you later.

Okay.

Allie would have loved this.

Everyone ready to open another calendar box?

Yeah. Yeah.

Get your coats. Let's go.

Oh, yeah.

Good as new.

Thank you again.

Thank you. Of course. Guys.

I know, right?

Yeah.

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.

Good luck. Okay, 15.

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

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. Okay, there's the middle.

I've got to hand it to you, Katie. Building a snowman as a whole town.

Great way to spend the morning. Ah, you see, my favorite thing. I would run down

to Prospect Park for a sign of snowfall.

Oh, haven't done it in years.

Hey, you want to help me roll the head?

Definitely.

Ah, look at that.

Oh, it turned out to be a beautiful day, huh?

Ezra, 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.

Oh! 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

What? Merry Christmas.

What's this?

It's an early present.

It's a little early for... I found it.

I think Mom would have wanted you to have it.

You know, just in case you're thinking of, oh, I don't know, using it sometime

or other.

That's a carrot.

Always have to have one handy.

Are you glad you stayed?

Yeah, I am.

Doesn't make it any easier to leave, though.

You okay?

Yeah. Yeah, absolutely. Just cold.

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.

All right. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas. Thank you.

I was, uh... It was beautiful.

I didn't know you could play so well.

I figured you've spent so much time at the art center, I thought maybe I should

help out with the choir.

You're incredible.

Hey, uh... Do you remember this one?

Do I?

Hold on.

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.

I've been wanting to tell you that for a long time, and I just, I didn't know

how.

Oh.

This is...

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?

To date.

I said that to you.

But 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, such different actual

locations, maybe we would be... Sitting by a fire after building a snowman?

Thank you.

Merry Christmas Ben.

Merry Christmas Katie.

I came to talk to you about your article.

As my mom or as my editor?

A little of both.

Hi, honey.

You brought a tree and all of these decorations?

I did. And have a look at these ornaments.

You saved them. I did.

This is from when I was little. Some I collected and some... Oh, you made.

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.

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.

Because you know I'm coming.

That's great, honey.

Strangest thing.

Just got requested to interview you for that job.

Oh, the one you left on the printer.

Yeah. Never actually applied for it.

That is strange.

Ma 'am?

Did you send it?

Yes. It was me. I click send. I am not prepared.

I haven't written anything.

Well, then you better dust them off and get started.

Then, you know, this library is my dream.

It's something 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 then, you only owe me.

That you live the life you want lived.

But if I even think about leaving, who's going to watch over the... Me, me. I'll

watch over the place.

And no,

I know, I can't do it by myself, but this is evergreen. I bet you we can find

someone.

Okay, okay.

Okay. Okay.

Filling up my Christmas list with gifts for girls and boys.

There's pretty things and candy, dreams, and every kind of toy.

The tree is set up twinkling with my favorite kind of light.

And faces glow because children know that Santa soon will fly.

All around this happy town, good tidings fill the air.

Cause everyone knows, they will soon appear.

Filling up my Christmas list, my favorite time of year.

Baby, 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 that. I might be one step ahead of

you.

Thank you.

Beer? Look at that.

That's what I'm saying.

So? So?

You're applying for jobs in the city.

How is your interview?

I think they went pretty great.

You see, I got this friend who's really got quite the career in freelancing, and

I might have been just a little bit inspired by her.

How's the Christmas calendar?

It's good. There's still three days left to the end. Everyone's still really

excited about it. The Cooper sisters, they're giving free piano lessons. It's

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 want to make sure I could see you

Well, can you take a later one come to the thing with me?

What is this thing what is the thing

It's huge.

Can I ask you something?

Of course.

That article that you've 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, give it a try, right?

Did some interviews, talked to people.

This is a great angle.

Yeah? Yeah. An entire town run by female business owners?

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. You know, there are a lot of other jobs out there.

I'll try again after the new year.

I should probably get going.

Great. Well, come on. I'll walk you past my favorite enormous Christmas tree.

Okay. Right on the way.

That tree has a lot of life.

One of my favorite things about living in the 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.

Merry Christmas, Ben.

Merry Christmas, Katie.

So tonight is our Christmas Eve pick.

Hannah. All right.

Let's see.

This be.

Let's see here.

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.

Oh, Ezra.

Dear Evergreen, as the

mayor of Evergreen, I have been granted the honor of bestowing both...

of today's gifts.

In this box, you will find savings bonds.

Hopefully having now matured these 50 years. 50 years?

That must be a lot. Wow.

It's hard to say, but I think our town budget just increased considerably.

Did you know about this?

I most definitely did not.

Help the needy.

Welcome all travelers 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.

We want to be sure you all get to spend Christmas mornings with your family.

And so, we have officially started a Christmas festival to be held on

Eve each year.

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 presence as you can muster.

Isn't that a 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, Beth. 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.

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 we decided since it was Christmas Eve that it would

nicer to have story hour at the Christmas festival.

Okay, 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 hands, and a new love for Christmas in her heart.

that never changed through a long life spent in doing good.

The end.

Merry Christmas!

Hi, guys.

What are you doing here? Well, someone had to read them Louise and May Alcott.

Did you know that she also wrote A Christmas Carol?

Mm -hmm.

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 want to...

Does that mean you're staying

here?

For Christmas, yes.

But the city will always be my home.

Probably.

But I wanted to spend Christmas here, with...

My mom and you.

It is pretty special. Hi. There might be something else. Hi.

You were right about this cocoa, Katie. It's incredible.

What else? There's something else? 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.

Wow, really?

Yes.

Wow. And I'd also like you to come interview at the magazine in the new

I don't know what to say. Yes.

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, it's been a wonderful surprise.

Some things just take a little nudge.

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.

Merry Christmas.

So before we open the final gift, I would love it if you all would raise a

and join me in thanking Ezra Green for all of his years of service as the mayor

of Evergreen. To Ezra. To Ezra.

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.

Get up here.

How's that? Fit good?

Yeah. Okay.

Oh, Michelle.

We forgot to ask.

Ask what?

Ask you to marry me, Michelle.

You are without a doubt the most beautiful, special woman I have ever

And I knew that the moment I first laid eyes on you.

Yes.

I'm glad I haven't asked yet.

I know, yes.

Will you marry me?

Yes, I will.

Yes.

Oh, um, David, um, continue.

What does it say?

It says, now fill the boxes back up, seal up the wall, and send a Merry

Christmas to Evergreen.

Fifty more years.

Those of us who were leaving Evergreen, bound for new adventures, boarded the

Evergreen Express. It's only an interview.

No. I want you to do the very best job you can.

Of course.

Bye.

Bye.

Bye. Bye, sweetie.

Have a good trip. Oh, thank you. Bye.

Thank you all. See you. Bye. Okay.

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. Fuck.

Ben moved to the city a few months later, and I wrote a book about a town

Vermont where a veterinarian found love in her hometown and a designer reopened

the general store.

And now I am hard at work on another story for next year about twin pine

twin sisters, and, well, that's another Christmas in

Evergreen.

We want some snow globe wishes.

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

wishing right now.