Christmas traditions come and go, but one tradition that stays in many homes is the Christmas tree.

The trees are usually thrown in the trash after Christmas, but in Beach, a different tradition has taken hold.

For Tama Smith, owner of Prairie Fire Pottery in Beach, her Christmas tree tradition changed with the encounter of a visiting Norweigian artist at the University of North Dakota.

"In Norway, each year they have a giant bonfire to send off the Christmas trees, so I brought the tradition to North Dakota," said Smith.

Since 1996, Beach residents and those in other areas of North Dakota gather for the celebration of the Christmas tree bonfire. And this year will be the 13th annual. Smith said it's an enjoyable occasion, and she encourages anyone to come watch this event.

This tradition isn't only for the purpose of removing the trees, but it is a way to create pottery, said Smith.

After a large pit is dug, pottery is placed in the hole. Next, the Christmas trees are piled on and combustible material is placed around the pit. Then the show begins as Beach firefighters light the stack.

It's a festival for all as the crowd, usually about 50 or so people, gathers to warm themselves around the lighting of the Christmas trees and enjoy hot chocolate and chili, said Smith.

After the show, the pottery is cooled for a couple of days. When it is dug out, the pottery is auctioned off.

"This is our annual fundraiser," Smith said, "and the proceeds from the auction go to the firefighters or a group in the community who needs the money."

The Christmas tree bonfire will take place at 6 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Golden Valley County Fairgrounds in Beach.

For more information, contact Tama Smith at 872-3815.

(Megan Nitschke is a senior at Mandan High School.)