Providence Needs Your Help Finding The Perfect Christmas Trees

PROVIDENCE, RI — Providence will host its annual holiday celebration on Dec. 1, at the Providence Rink in Kennedy Plaza. But before the festive tradition, city officials need help finding the perfect Christmas trees.

The city is searching for two spruce or fir trees: a 35-foot to 45-foot tree to grace the front steps at Providence City Hall and a 15-foot to 20-foot tree for the Providence Rink for the Christmas tree lighting.

Residents can nominate their tree by sending an email with a description and photo of the tree to Allison Barry, the cultural affairs manager of art, culture, and tourism, at abarry@providenceri.gov.

The Providence Forestry Division of the Parks Department will cut the winning tree down and haul it away free of charge. Stanley Tree Service will provide crane service for the trees, as they have in past years. Submissions must be received by Nov. 12.

The winning tree owner will be photographed with Mayor Brett Smiley in front of the tree during the lighting ceremony, which will be held at 5 p.m. at the Providence Rink at 2 Kennedy Plaza. The ceremony will feature award-winning skating teams from around the state and other family friendly activities, refreshments and music.

Have a news tip? Email jimmy.bentley@patch.com.