Annual YMCA Tree Lot Open For Business

By MAGNOLIA LAFLEUR | Reporter

‘Tis the season for freshly cut towering Christmas trees—Palisadians can get theirs with help from the Palisades-Malibu YMCA at its annual Christmas Tree Lot, which opened its doors on Wednesday, December 1.

Brought to you by Jim Kirtley, executive director of Palisades-Malibu YMCA, this year’s lot will offer a plethora of trees with standard and vintage nobles from Oregon. Community members can choose from small trees to trees that are 13 feet tall. Prices will range from $40 to $700 depending on the size.

“I am excited to say we will have some new varieties that are absolutely beautiful trees,” Kirtley said to the Palisadian-Post.

Cedar garlands and wreaths of all sizes will also be available.

The tree lot is one of two annual fundraisers and Kirtley explained the importance of buying local and giving back, saying that while he has only been participating since the year 2000, the tree lot is a tradition dating back to the ’80s.

“You’re spending money in your community, and it’s coming right back and staying in your community, helping other families,” Kirtley said to the Post in 2020. “It’s all about paying your own community forward.”

The YMCA is partnered with the city of Los Angeles and the program Feed LA, which gives away 70 bags of non-perishable and fresh food every Thursday. The Christmas tree lot fundraiser also supports local programs such as “Get Out, Get Moving,” summer day camps, offers financial aid for youth activities and more.

Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., until the trees sell out. Local deliveries will be available.

“Come early, get the best trees on the Westside, enjoy Simon Meadows,” Kirtley said. “Support your local YMCA and its good works.”

The Christmas Tree Lot is located at Simon Meadow at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon—the same lot that is slated to host the annual Ho! Ho! Ho!

A beloved community tradition for more than 60 years, Santa Claus and his team have visited the Palisades each holiday season during Ho! Ho! Ho! This year’s event will be on Saturday, December 11, between 3 and 5 p.m.

“Pacific Palisades turns 100 years old in January,” event organizer Lou Kamer said. “Ho! Ho! Ho! remains a truly authentic celebration, which adds to the joy of living in this wonderful community—join us.”