Macy’s Ends 30-Year Tradition of Funding Union Square Christmas Tree

Change Comes to a Longstanding Holiday Tradition

For more than 30 years, the Union Square Christmas tree has been a highlight of the San Francisco holiday season, with Macy’s covering the costs and taking a leading role in the beloved tradition. However, this year marks a turning point: Macy's will no longer pay for the iconic Union Square Christmas tree, ending a celebrated era for holiday traditions in San Francisco.

The City Steps In as New Sponsor

Filling the gap, the city of San Francisco will now take responsibility for funding the tree. For the first time, a real Christmas tree, rather than an artificial one, will be showcased in Union Square. This transition signals the beginning of a new chapter for the san francisco holidays and efforts to maintain the festive spirit across downtown.

Community Reactions to the Change

The decision has prompted reflections and responses from both residents and visitors. Local resident Natali Impezzeeri shared, “A lot of people come here to take photos. So it does draw tourists’ attention, which I know is very important for the city. They have a reputation to uphold. So I hope they do that.” Tourists like Janet Cobb also voiced support for the change, stating, “It’s always nice to have a real Christmas tree at Christmas time. All the big cities and the major cities, you go to have a real tree and it gives a good feeling.” Laura Alonso, visiting the city, remarked, “It’s something new, something different... it’s a bit of both new and old.”

Macy’s Holiday Role Shifts

While exiting sponsorship of the Union Square Christmas tree, Macy’s will focus on holiday programming within its own store. This includes festive macys holiday decorations and its annual SF SPCA pet window displays, which remain a draw for locals and tourists alike. Last year, the retailer had already ceased funding for the Santa experience in the square.

Holiday Festivities Continue

The city is committed to keeping holiday traditions San Francisco alive. A spokesperson emphasized, “By investing in vibrant holiday experiences, we aim to bring joy to residents and visitors alike while supporting local businesses and driving economic activity throughout downtown.” In addition to the christmas tree illumination, Union Square will also host a holiday market and a calendar of seasonal activities.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Returns

This year, the Union Square Christmas tree—now funded by the city and featuring a real tree—will be raised and illuminated by Black Friday. The lighting event continues to be a major attraction, drawing crowds eager to celebrate Union Square holiday events and the official start of the city's festive period.

Source: kron4.com.