The history of Christmas Tree Lane in Fresno, California, can be traced back to 1920, when a single act of love and remembrance sparked what would become a cherished holiday tradition. Over the decades, this annual event has grown into one of the most iconic and celebrated Christmas displays in the region.
The First Tree
In 1920, Mae Winning, a resident of Van Ness Boulevard, decorated a deodar cedar tree in front of her home to honor her 14-year-old son, William "Billy" Hobart Winning, who had tragically passed away in an accident. This heartfelt gesture illuminated not just the tree but the spirit of the entire neighborhood, laying the foundation for what would become Christmas Tree Lane.
The Tradition Grows
In the years following Mae Winning’s poignant tribute, other neighbors along Van Ness Boulevard joined in by decorating their own trees. By the mid-1920s, 17 homes were adorned with festive lights, and by 1931, the area had earned the nickname "Christmas Tree Lane."
The Tradition Continues
Since its humble beginnings, Christmas Tree Lane has grown each year, evolving into a beloved community tradition that attracts thousands of visitors annually. Managed by the Fig Garden Homeowners Association, the event requires extensive coordination among law enforcement, civic groups, and private individuals to ensure its success.
Moments of Pause
Despite its enduring popularity, the tradition has faced interruptions. Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Christmas Tree Lane went dark in solidarity with national wartime efforts. Similarly, the 1973 oil crisis led to another temporary pause. These brief interruptions only deepened the community's appreciation for the tradition when it returned.
Facing Challenges
In 2000, Christmas Tree Lane faced another challenge when Southern California Edison withdrew its maintenance of the Lane’s electrical system. This threatened the future of the event and left the community searching for solutions to keep the lights shining.
The Tradition is Saved
The resilience of Fresno’s residents ensured that the legacy of Christmas Tree Lane would endure. The Pratts, who now own the property where the "First Tree" stands, worked diligently to preserve the historic tree. They hired AgroNatural Sciences to develop a bacterial solution that promoted the tree’s health and growth. Additionally, 150 living pieces of the tree were sent to Belmont Nursery, where most survived and continue to be monitored to ensure the tree’s legacy.
Christmas Tree Lane Today
Today, Christmas Tree Lane is a cornerstone of Fresno’s holiday celebrations. The 2024 season will run from December 3 to December 25, with walk-only nights scheduled for December 3 and December 11. These evenings allow visitors to stroll along the Lane, marveling at the dazzling lights and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Each year, this time-honored tradition brings together families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate the season and reflect on the enduring magic of community spirit.
Christmas Tree Lane stands as a testament to the power of remembrance, resilience, and the joy of shared traditions. As we admire the glowing lights and festive displays, we honor the legacy of Mae Winning and the community that transformed a single gesture of love into a holiday tradition that continues to shine brightly, more than a century later.
