FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) –The 2024 holiday season marks Christmas Tree Lane’s 104th Anniversary.
Tuesday, December 3rd is the first of his year’s “walk nights” for Christmas Tree Lane.
A tradition is beginning again – on the first night it’s strictly for those on foot.
Former event Chair Dean Alexander said, “The walking nights are very popular. Realistically estimate between 30 to 40,000 people actually come down and walk the lane.”
The event is now in its 104th year, with Fresno’s Van Ness Boulevard prepared for the influx of visitors strolling along the holiday magic
Fresno’s Christmas Tree Lane is a tradition lasting over 100 years! Each December, North Van Ness Boulevard in Old Fig Garden becomes a one-way street lined with hundreds of trees and homes all decked-out with lights and decorations for the holidays. Visitors can drive the 2-mile stretch from Shields to Shaw all the way until Christmas Day.
The second “Walk-only” night is set for Wednesday, December 11.
Donations benefit the lighting, refurbishment and maintenance of Christmas Tree Lane. Christmas Tree Lane is a non-profit event that depends on donations from the community.
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.
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 tradition was cancelled during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christmas Tree Lane starts at Van Ness and Shields and continues to Shaw Avenue.
- Dates: December 2rd to 25th
- Walking Nights (lane closed to vehicles): Tuesday, December 2nd & Wednesday, December 11th
- Hours: Sunday thru Thursday: 6pm to 10pm, Friday & Saturday: 6pm to 11pm
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.
