Detroits Christmas Tree: A Holiday Tradition In The City

The city of Detroit, Michigan, has a rich history of celebrating the holiday season with its iconic Christmas tree. Every year, the city's Christmas tree becomes a beloved landmark, attracting visitors from all over the region. In this article, we'll delve into the history of Detroit's Christmas tree tradition, its significance, and what makes it so special.

Detroit's Christmas tree tradition dates back to 1950, when the city's first Christmas tree was erected in Kennedy Square. The tree was a 30-foot-tall blue spruce, decorated with over 1,000 lights and ornaments. Since then, the tradition has continued to grow, with the tree becoming a staple of the city's holiday celebrations. Today, the tree is typically a 60-foot-tall fir, adorned with over 20,000 lights and hundreds of ornaments.

The Significance of Detroit's Christmas Tree

Detroit's Christmas tree holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. For many, it marks the beginning of the holiday season and serves as a symbol of hope, joy, and community. The tree is often lit up during a special ceremony, which features music, food, and activities for children. This event has become a beloved tradition, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors from all over the city.

The Tree-Lighting Ceremony

The tree-lighting ceremony is a highlight of Detroit's holiday season. The event typically takes place on the first Friday of December and features a range of activities, including:

• Live music performances by local artists
• A visit from Santa Claus
• Holiday crafts and activities for children
• Food and drink vendors selling festive treats
• A special countdown to the tree lighting

The ceremony is attended by thousands of people, and it's not uncommon to see families and friends dressed in festive attire, singing carols and enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

The Economic Impact of Detroit's Christmas Tree

Detroit's Christmas tree has a significant economic impact on the city. The tree attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom come from outside the city to see the tree and enjoy the surrounding holiday activities. This influx of visitors boosts local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and retail sectors.

According to a study by the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Christmas tree and surrounding holiday activities generate over $1 million in revenue for local businesses each year. This includes:

• Hotel bookings: Many visitors come from outside the city to see the tree, and they need a place to stay. This generates significant revenue for local hotels.
• Restaurant sales: Visitors often eat at local restaurants while they're in town, boosting sales for these businesses.
• Retail sales: The tree and surrounding holiday activities attract shoppers to local stores, where they purchase gifts, decorations, and other holiday items.

The Environmental Impact of Detroit's Christmas Tree

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the environmental impact of Christmas trees. Many cities, including Detroit, have begun to explore more sustainable options for their holiday trees.

Detroit's Christmas tree is typically a real tree, sourced from a local farm. However, the city has begun to explore more sustainable options, such as using artificial trees or renting living trees that can be replanted after the holiday season.

Fun Facts About Detroit's Christmas Tree

Here are some fun facts about Detroit's Christmas tree:

• The tree is typically decorated with over 20,000 lights and hundreds of ornaments.
• The tree is usually a fir, but it has been a spruce in the past.
• The tree is lit up for approximately 30 days each year.
• The tree is typically between 50-60 feet tall.
• The tree is decorated by a team of volunteers, who work tirelessly to get the tree looking its best.

Visiting Detroit's Christmas Tree

If you're planning to visit Detroit's Christmas tree, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• The tree is typically located in Campus Martius Park, in the heart of downtown Detroit.
• The tree is lit up from late November to early January.
• The tree is open to the public 24/7, but it's best to visit during the day when it's less crowded.
• There are plenty of parking options available in the surrounding area.
• Be sure to check the city's website for special events and activities surrounding the tree.

Conclusion: A Holiday Tradition in the City

Detroit's Christmas tree is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy and cheer to the city. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, the tree is a must-see during the holiday season. With its rich history, economic impact, and environmental significance, the tree is a true icon of the city. So why not make a trip to Detroit this holiday season and experience the magic of the city's Christmas tree for yourself?