GREENVILLE — The 2025 Downtown Greenville Christmas tree arrived Monday, November 17, thanks to the support of many local community members and businesses.
“It is a great thing to bring downtown,” said Kristin Fee. “The spirit of Christmas downtown brings people together, and it is good to come together for positive things in our community.”
This year marks the fifth anniversary of the tradition, which began when community member and Tribute Funeral Home Owner Eric Fee approached city officials with the idea of creating a new holiday tradition in honor of his late mother, Barbara Fee.
“It’s an honor for Tribute Funeral Homes. My wife Kristin and I love to donate and be a part of the community,” said Eric Fee. “We think this is a big part of the season people look forward to.”
Eric shared that the idea took root after his mother’s passing. The inaugural tree in 2021 was dedicated to Barbara, who devoted her life to serving the community.
“This is five years since we started this,” Fee said. “We started it in honor of my mother, who passed away the year before of COVID, and it became a tradition after that. It’s great to honor her every year. We honor someone new every year, but in our hearts, we always think of Mom every time we see the tree.”
Each year, the tree is dedicated to a special community member. This year’s honoree will be announced during the annual Hometown Holiday Horse Parade.
“We have a special person we are nominating this year—a great family in the community,” said Fee. “Can’t wait to unveil that at the Horse Parade.”
“At the Horse Parade, Santa Claus will stop at the Christmas tree at the end of the parade,” he continued. “He’ll get off, the Mayor will say a few words, and we’ll announce who it’s for. Then we’ll do a countdown and light the Christmas tree by the Annie Oakley statue.”
This year’s 19-year-old tree was generously donated by Mark and Denise Good of East Maple Avenue.
“When we moved into the house in September 2006, we got the tree in November for our Christmas tree that first year in our new home,” said Denise. “It’s a little tough to give up, but we’re glad to because we are going to put a new one up, and we’re glad it can be used for the city. We’re happy to donate it. It’s not the biggest tree, but I think it will be the prettiest one.”
The ongoing tradition is supported each year by numerous local businesses whose generosity ensures the Community Christmas Tree continues to shine in downtown Greenville. The tree is located just south of Broadway, across from YOLO Park.
Downtown Greenville Christmas Tree donors: Tribute Funeral Homes, Reigning Cats & Dogs, Greenville Federal, West Ranch Express LLC, Chelsi Bell, Fitzwater Tree and Lawn Care, AES, City of Greenville Street Department, Jcrane Inc., Lowe’s and George Clifton Excavating.
