Strolling Under The Stars: Exploring Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane

Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane is a century-old tradition, dating back to 1920 when a single tree was decorated in honour of a deceased child. Since then, it has grown into a spectacular two-mile-long display of festive cheer, with 140 homes and 300 trees adorned with millions of lights and decorations. While the lane is typically open to vehicle traffic, there are designated walk-only nights, allowing pedestrians to stroll through the magical setting. These nights provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the holiday spectacle up close and immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit.

Christmas Tree Lane's history dates back to 1920, when a single tree was decorated in memory of a deceased child

Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane is a century-old tradition. Each December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden is transformed into a one-way street adorned with hundreds of decorated trees and homes, creating a festive atmosphere for the holidays. The two-mile stretch from Shields to Shaw attracts visitors until Christmas Day, who come to immerse themselves in the dazzling display of lights and decorations.

The history of Christmas Tree Lane dates back to 1920, when a single tree was adorned in memory of a deceased child. That year, a child passed away in a home on North Van Ness Boulevard in Fresno. During the holidays, the tree in front of the home was decorated to honour and remember the child. This act of remembrance sparked a heartwarming tradition that has endured and grown over the years.

The decorated tree, known as the "First Tree", holds a special significance in the community. It serves as a symbol of comfort and solidarity, with a sign placed at the tree reading, "In 1920, to honour a child that has died in this home, this First Tree was decorated. Each year, more trees were decorated and Christmas Tree Lane was born." The neighbours of the grieving family joined in, decorating their own trees and front yards, turning this heartfelt gesture into a beloved community event.

Over time, the tradition expanded, with more families participating and adding their own creative touches. The lane became a dazzling spectacle of lights and decorations, attracting thousands of visitors each year. In 1931, the event officially became known as Christmas Tree Lane. The lane spans over 140 houses and 300 trees, with millions of twinkling lights illuminating the street and bringing joy to all who visit.

The tradition has endured through the decades, with only a few exceptions. The lane went dark during World War II in 1941 due to wartime restrictions and again in 1973 during an energy crisis. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic also impacted the event, with ""walk nights" being cancelled to adhere to health and safety guidelines. However, the community's dedication to keeping this tradition alive has ensured its longevity.

Christmas Tree Lane holds a special place in the hearts of Fresno residents and has even gained national recognition. It was featured on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight" and TLC's "Invasion of the Christmas Lights", showcasing the lane's unique charm to a wider audience. The lane was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, recognising its cultural significance.

As Christmas Tree Lane continues to evolve, it remains rooted in community spirit and the memory of a child who inspired a neighbourhood to come together in celebration and remembrance.

The two-mile stretch of North Van Ness Boulevard is closed to cars on designated walk-only nights

Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno, California, is a festive tradition that has been going strong for over a century. Each December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden is transformed into a dazzling display of holiday cheer. Usually, this two-mile stretch from Shields to Shaw is open to vehicular traffic, allowing visitors to drive through and admire the lights and decorations adorning the homes and trees along the route.

However, on designated walk-only nights, the two-mile stretch of North Van Ness Boulevard is closed to cars, inviting pedestrians to immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere up close. These special evenings provide an opportunity for the community to gather and stroll through the illuminated lane, taking in the festive sights and sounds. It's a chance for people to connect, socialise, and spread some holiday cheer.

The walk-only nights are highly anticipated events, especially after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Christmas Tree Lane reopened to pedestrians for two nights, celebrating its 101st year. The lane was aglow with millions of lights, with approximately 140 homes and 300 trees decorated to impress.

To ensure the comfort of all attendees, organisers recommend that walkers dress warmly and bring blankets and hot cocoa to stay cosy during their stroll. The walk-only nights are typically scheduled on specific dates within the Christmas Tree Lane season, providing a unique and memorable experience for all who attend.

The event is free to attend and is sponsored by the Fig Garden Homeowners Association, with donations from the public being welcomed to support this long-standing tradition. Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno truly captures the spirit of the holidays and brings joy to people from all over the world.

Christmas Tree Lane is open from 6 pm to 10 pm Sunday to Thursday and 6 pm to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays

Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno, California, is a festive, century-old tradition. Every year, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden is transformed into a one-way, two-mile stretch of holiday cheer, with hundreds of trees and homes adorned with Christmas decorations. The lane is open to visitors who can choose to drive or walk through the display.

In 2021, Christmas Tree Lane was open from Sunday to Thursday, 6 pm to 10 pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 pm to 11 pm. The lane typically remains open until Christmas Day, from the start of December.

In 2023, Christmas Tree Lane hosted two walk-only nights on Saturday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 12, from 6 pm to 10 pm. On these nights, pedestrians were allowed to stroll through the lane and take in the lights and decorations up close.

While the walk-only nights offer a unique opportunity to experience Christmas Tree Lane on foot, walking is also permitted on other nights, known as "non-walk nights". However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, "walk nights" were cancelled in 2020 and 2021, with the lane being open only to driving visitors.

Christmas Tree Lane is a beloved holiday tradition in Fresno, attracting visitors from all over the world. It is a sight to behold, with millions of lights, decorated homes, and trees, all bringing the Christmas spirit to life.

Dogs are allowed to walk on Christmas Tree Lane on any night, but they must be leashed

Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane is a century-old tradition, with the lane being decorated every year since 1920. The two-mile stretch of North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden is transformed into a one-way street lined with hundreds of trees and homes decked out in holiday decorations. The display spans nearly two miles, featuring 140 homes and 2.5 million lights.

While visitors usually drive through the lane, there are designated walk-only nights. In 2023, there were two walk-only nights: Saturday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 12. On these nights, visitors are allowed to walk their dogs, as long as they are leashed and owners clean up after them.

Dogs are also allowed to walk on Christmas Tree Lane on any other night, not just the designated walk-only nights. However, dogs must be leashed, and it is considered common courtesy for owners to clean up after their pets. So, if you're planning to bring your furry friend to experience the festive lights and decorations, remember to follow these simple rules to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Whether you choose to drive or walk, Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno, California, is a must-see holiday destination, bringing joy to people from all over the world.

The event is free, but donations are welcome and can be made online or at kiosks along the route

Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane is a free event, but donations are welcome and can be made online or at kiosks along the route. The event is a well-loved tradition in Fresno, dating back to 1920. Each December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Fig Garden is transformed into a one-way, two-mile stretch of festive cheer, with hundreds of trees and homes adorned with Christmas lights and decorations.

The event is sponsored by the Fig Garden Homeowners Association and funded by donations from the public. Visitors can choose to drive or walk the route, with specific walk-only nights designated. On these evenings, pedestrians can stroll through the dazzling display of lights and decorations, taking in the holiday atmosphere.

The walk-only nights for 2023 were Saturday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 12, from 6 pm to 10 pm. During these nights, visitors had the opportunity to experience Christmas Tree Lane up close and personal, without the usual flow of vehicle traffic.

While there is no cost to attend Christmas Tree Lane, donations are gratefully accepted. Visitors can choose to donate online before their visit or contribute at kiosks located along the route. These donations help fund the event, ensuring that the tradition can continue for years to come.

In addition to the walk-only nights, Christmas Tree Lane is typically open to vehicle traffic from December 1 to December 25, with operating hours from 6 pm to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 6 pm to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It is recommended to visit the Christmas Tree Lane website or Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and any potential event updates.

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