Christmas Tree Lane
Crowds of people fill the one-way street, lined with houses covered in vibrant lights and displays. Cars packed with people wait patiently in a mile-long line for their turn to drive down this breathtakingly colorful road. As they enter, an immensely bright sign can be seen above, reading, “Christmas Tree Lane.”
Adding to the magic of the holiday season, one of the Central Valley’s most popular attractions invites people to enjoy the sights, while walking with family and friends or driving through the wonders. The two-mile stretch of decorated houses down Van Ness Boulevard includes sights like hidden reindeer and homemade displays for people of all ages to enjoy during the holidays. From Dec. 3 through Dec. 25, people will fill up the surrounding streets, eager to enter into the main attraction.
Lasting for more than 100 years, this annual tradition began back in 1920 with the planting of a singular tree meant to honor a child who tragically passed. Since then, the infectious joy has spread down the street, adding to the deep meaning behind the tradition. The lights have been up and running almost yearly, only being shut off in 1941 during World War II and in 1973 when the area faced an energy crisis. This annual celebration has been continuous, with the people being the ones who choose to make this a memorable experience for all to enjoy.
Junior Kennedy Schwab has been to the lane numerous times to see the impeccable light displays. Attending with both friends and family, Schwab enjoys the memorable Christmas tradition.
“My favorite part about Christmas Tree Lane is being able to walk down it and see and enjoy all of the Christmas lights and decorations,” Schwab said. “It’s memorable for me when I go with family, trying to find the reindeer throughout the lane or always getting churros and hot cocoa from our favorite house. I love seeing so many people come together to enjoy the beauty of the lane.”
Locals and those who have expanded their horizons by moving out of the Central Valley, hold the lane close to their hearts.
Alumna Chloe McDonald, ‘24, visited Christmas Tree Lane during her childhood and still remembers the magic essence of driving through the rows of decorated houses. McDonald hopes to revisit the lane when she returns to the Valley for Christmas time.
“What makes the lane memorable is the experience of going with special people,” McDonald said. “It’s an event I look forward to every year, and I genuinely believe it’s best enjoyed with those you love. It’s truly remarkable to see the creativity and time that goes into such a beautiful seasonal display.”
Christmas Tree Lane will kick off the holiday galore on Dec. 3, opening with a walk-only night from 6-10 p.m. The other walk-only night will happen on Dec.11, allowing families and friends to stroll down the lane at their own pace. The magic will continue until Christmas Day, Dec. 25, wrapping up the 2024 year.
Candy Cane Lane
A more suburban option for families to indulge in this holiday season is Clovis’ Candy Cane Lane, beginning Dec. 1 and lasting until Christmas Day. Winding neighborhood streets will be filled to the brim with decorations and families, having the option to either walk or drive through for the whole month of December.
The annual tradition began in 1993, and has been ongoing for 31 long years, despite challenges like the pandemic. The community has drawn close to keep this tradition continued, being neighborly and hospitable to all who come to view the exhibitions.
A red sleigh filled to the brim with passengers and a big-bellied Santa Claus is a fun occurrence that can be found throughout these neighborhoods. Other things like hot cocoa and sweet treats are typically handed out or sold by the hospitable and welcoming homeowners greeting locals.
Cindy Lane resident, Aubri Foster, decorates to an extent like no other, decking out her home around the theme of “Let it Snow”. She takes part in the tradition, eager to decorate as soon as thanksgiving ends and show hospitality to those who visit.
“Living on Candy Cane Lane is like living in a Hallmark Movie.” Foster said. “My favorite part of the season is keeping my coffee, cocoa, & cookie bar stocked every night so that when friends and family stop by, we can give them a warm treat. We have an open-door policy during the month of December and several planned parties, but the surprise people who pop in for a hug warms my heart!”
Go out to Van Ness Blvd. or Cindy Ave. in Dec. to experience the holiday magic locals bring to their homes as a community. This annual tradition will continue to thrive with the local support of the Central Valley.
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