Devoted Tree Honorining Pets in Central Park Brutally Felled After Four Decades, Altering New York's Long-standing Holiday Customs
In the heart of New York City, a cherished tradition has been disrupted. The Central Park Memorial Christmas Tree, affectionately known as the "Furever Tree," was cut down in August 2025, marking the end of a 40-year-old tradition that has become a significant attraction during the year-end holidays.
This tree, an 18-foot Hinoki false cypress, has been a place where New Yorkers honour their deceased pets by displaying photographs on its branches. Unlike the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the Central Park Memorial Tree does not have lights, ornaments, or ribbons, making it a simple yet profound tribute.
The tree's demise was due to a combination of environmental stress and landscape wear, exacerbated by autumn and winter droughts, soil compaction, and cold conditions. Signs were placed around the tree asking visitors to avoid spreading pet ashes near the vegetation.
The Central Park press department is committed to finding a sustainable and well-thought-out alternative that protects and preserves Central Park for future generations. They are currently considering alternative ways to remember pets during the winter holidays. However, no information has been provided about the specific alternative plans for the winter of 2025.
The benches dedicated to the Central Park Memorial Tree left visitors emotional. The tree's location remains a secret, but most New Yorkers know where to find it. The tradition has become a city-wide event, with many residents contributing to the display of photographs.
The Central Park Memorial Christmas Tree was initiated by the actions of casting director Jason Reddock and actress Nicki Gallas, who started bringing mementos to the tree in the 1980s. The tree's loss has left a void in the hearts of many New Yorkers, who are now trying to determine what will replace the Central Park Memorial Christmas Tree in the year-end holidays.
The Central Park Memorial Christmas Tree has become a symbol of love, loss, and remembrance for the city of New York. As the press department works on finding a suitable replacement, the city waits with bated breath, hoping to keep this cherished tradition alive.
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