17th Annual Heroes Tree Lighting Ceremony in Old Saybrook December 5

OLD SAYBROOK, CT – All are invited to join state, federal, and local dignitaries for the annual lighting of the town and state's first official Heroes Tree on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 5:30 pm in front of the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT. Local veterans, the American Legion, VFW, Westbrook Elks, members of the U.S. Coast Guard, Gold Star families, and the Patriot Guard Riders Flag Line and Honor Guard will be in attendance. Lisa Carberg will serve as master of ceremonies and the “Heroes Tree” invocation will be given by Chaplain Jane Viera, U.S. Navy Retired.

The Heroes Tree is adorned with Gold Stars for the deceased, Silver Stars for those injured, and Blue Stars for those serving this country from Connecticut. The tree was decorated by World War II, Korean, and Vietnam veterans. The concept behind the "Heroes Tree" comes from artist and Navy Gold Star Mother Kathryn Cross. The tree is designed to raise awareness during this holiday season toward those who gave their lives or were injured defending this country and to honor the continuing sacrifices being made since 9/11 by the men and women in our armed forces.
The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center was chosen as the location for this memorial display because of its relevance to Kathryn Cross, the "Heroes Tree" original artistic director. Katharine Hepburn's sister Peg was also a Gold Star Mother. She lost her son Tommy in Vietnam in 1968. It therefore seemed the most appropriate location for the special "Heroes Tree," whose display is visible to all who travel along Old Saybrook's busy Main Street during this holiday season