Time has taken a toll on a New Ulm holiday tradition.
Since 1933, the city has strung garland from one downtown building to another across its main drag, lighting it up in colorful holiday lights. But this year will be the last for the high-rise display.
The 24 rows of garland that once were strung across Minnesota Street have since dwindled to seven because of concerns about building integrity and liability.
After one strand of garland caught fire two years ago, New Ulm began to rethink its garland tradition, said Michael Looft, president of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce.
"Clearly, we don't want our historic buildings burning," Looft said.
Looking at old photographs, city officials and residents are considering returning to a time when the city hung garland across building facades rather than across the main drag.
Next year's holiday decor also could include lights on the 3-foot potted pine trees that dot downtown corners along with mock Christmas presents placed at the base of streetlights, Looft said.
"People point to New Ulm for charm and tradition," he said.
