Fresno’s Christmas Tree Lane Celebrates 97th Anniversary

 

 

Fresno, CA (KMJ) – The 2019 holiday season marks Christmas Tree Lane’s 97th Anniversary.

Volunteers, neighbors and donors keep this annual event a Fresno tradition.

 

Christmas tree lane actually goes back to 19-20 – when a single tree decorated by William and Mae Winning was to honor their 14 year old son who died from a fall.

Neighbors decorated trees in front of their homes in solidarity with the grieving parents.

Today, the tree is one of hundreds decorated by residents along a 2-mile stretch of Van Ness Boulevard each December.

The lane’s so-called first tree is having troubles – up to 40-percent of the Cedar’s canopy has died. It is over 100 years old, and an arborist has been hired by Greg and Dana Pratt to try and save it.

In 2014, a Fresno family has earned national recognition for their Christmas lights display. The Alexander family’s display was so extravagant that they won a $50-thousand dollar prize after being featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas light-fight”.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office advises that when you do park, make sure you’re not blocking anyone’s driveways, if you are bringing your hot chocolate – don’t litter when you’re done.

Don’t spike your drinks – alcohol is not allowed on Christmas Tree Lane.

2019 Christmas Tree Lane Dates: December 3rd to 25th
Walking Nights (lane closed to vehicles): Tuesday, December 3rd & Wednesday, December 11th

Hours: Sunday thru Thursday: 6pm to 10pm, Friday & Saturday: 6pm to 11pm

Location: Van Ness Blvd beginning at Shields Ave and ending at Shaw Ave in Fresno, CA.

Christmas Tree Lane is a non-profit event that depends on donations from the community.

 

Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies will be patrolling the area on foot and on horseback for security reasons and to assist the public.

Christmas Tree Lane will remain open until December 25th. Motorists can see all of the decorations by traveling north on Van Ness during the following schedule.
Sunday through Thursday = 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday and Saturday = 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Please remember to take simple precautions on walk nights to ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience.

  • Allow extra time to get around city streets as it will be very crowded.
  • Park only in permitted areas and do not block driveways.
  • Lock your vehicles and do not leave any valuables visible inside.
  • Parents should keep a close eye on their children and consider carrying a flashlight for extra visibility.
  • Prior to the walk, designate a meeting spot in case you get separated from family members.
  • Dress warm and be prepared for rain.
  • No alcohol or marijuana is allowed on Christmas Tree Lane.
  • Please be respectful of the neighborhood. Do not touch decorations and do not litter.
  • Report suspicious behavior to the Sheriff’s Office by calling (559) 600-3111.