Point State Park holiday tree set to return with new name, look

For years, it was an iconic holiday fixture in Pittsburgh. The Point State Park Christmas tree dotted the city’s confluence as an annual beacon of the season. Until last year.

Sponsored by Duquesne Light, the tree stood near the fountain in Point State Park since its introduction in the 1988 — until state officials halted the tradition in 2020, saying the tree was not in keeping with the historic nature of the park. However, a grassroots petition returned the tree in 2021. The tree was not erected last year.

However, this season the tree will return. Duquesne Light announced the new 60-foot Three Rivers Tree will stand from Friday through Jan. 8.

In a news release, the company said the tree will feature over 22,000 LED pixels and employ several sustainability features. Visually, the new tree will incorporate vibrant colors and images in 15-minute cycles that symbolize the winter and holiday season.

“DLC is beyond delighted to bring a new holiday symbol to Pittsburgh while staying aligned with our vision of a clean energy future for all,” Duquesne Light president and CEO Kevin Walker said in the release.

Pete Linko of Washington County, whose Change.org petition in 2020 helped to save the tree from its first demise, said it was a joint effort to bring the tree back again.

“Thank you to each one who stood with us from day one,” Linko posted in a Facebook group called Supporters of the Point State Park Christmas Tree. “Whether you signed the petition, shared it, donated money or time, this tradition is continuing because of you. While it may look different, it’ll be a testament to the resilience of Pittsburgh and her people. It’s a story that shows what we can do when we all work together.”

To view the online petition, click here.