16th Annual East Harlem Holiday Tree
The East Harlem Holiday Tree is a beacon that symbolizes the persistence of hope and the determination to prevail in the diverse and culturally rich community of East Harlem. All photos in the slide deck above were taken by Eye of Eve Photography
About Us
Every year since December 2004, a group of volunteers who are dedicated to the East Harlem community have raised the funds to install a huge decorated tree at Franklin Plaza, corner of Third Avenue and East 106th Street. We proudly celebrate the 16th anniversary of our efforts this year. We invite you all to support this year's Holiday Tree.
A Tribute to Our Community
We’re celebrating our Sweet 16 and we’re looking forward to "blowing out 16 candles on the special cake" we’ll be sharing with the community of East Harlem this coming holiday season—a 17-foot-tall live tree wrapped in silver, white and gold decorations, many of them made from recycled materials. A giant illuminated crown will hang high over the intersection adjacent to the tree, and we will give out tiaras and crowns to the children who attend the tree lighting event on Friday, December 13, 6:30 p.m.
Crown atThird Avenue and 106th . Photo by Eve Valenzuela
We Need Your Help
We depend on donations, large and small, from community based organizations, corporations doing businesses in East Harlem groups, and individuals. Please make a tax deductible contribution today! We now offer online donation capability! Visit the Donate page to find out how.
At the 2009 Tree Lighting Ceremony, Johnny C. Rivera tells why East Harlem deserves a Holiday Tree.
Video by: Jose Rivera
Calendar of East Harlem Holiday Tree and Related Holiday Events
Friday, December 13
Franklin Plaza, Third Avenue and 106th Street
5:45 p.m.
Posada with Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture
Without Borders
6:30 p.m.
16th Annual East Harlem Holiday Tree Lighting
Hot Chocolate and Clothing Drive with characters from
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
Santa handing out crowns and tiaras
23rd Precinct gift distribution
Thursday, December 28, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Dance Actions: The Response
On the traditional Day of the Innocents, Zemi Dance Theater
presents an interactive performance in tribute to the families who have been separated at the US/Mexico border.
Monday, January 6, 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
43rd Annual Three Kings Day Parade
El Museo del Barrio
1230 Fifth Avenue, 104th-105th Streets
Singer Elmore James leads the crowd in song at the 2009 Tree Lighting event.
Photo by Jose B. Rivera