The Horne's Christmas Tree: A Pittsburgh Holiday Tradition
As the holiday season is in full swing, Pittsburghers know it's time for one of the most beloved traditions of the season: the Horne's Christmas Tree! Standing tall in the heart of Downtown, the tree has become a symbol of warmth, community, and festive cheer for generations of Pittsburgh families.
A Journey Back in Time
The story of the Horne's Christmas Tree dates back to when it began as a simple string of lights in 1953. At the time, it was an enchanting centerpiece that captured the spirit of the season and drew crowds from across the region. Through the years the tree evolved from its origin as a string of lights to an iconic Christmas Tree spanning the corner of one of Downtown Pittsburgh’s historic storefronts. For more than four decades, the tree stood proudly outside the iconic Horne’s store on Fifth Avenue, its twinkling lights and elegant ornaments becoming a cherished part of Pittsburgh’s winter landscape.
In an era when shopping was an event, families flocked to Horne’s not just for gifts but for the sheer joy of experiencing its Christmas displays. The tree, in all its grandeur, was a highlight of the season, and children eagerly awaited the moment when the lights would flicker on, marking the official start of the holidays.
A Symbol of Tradition and Nostalgia
Though Horne’s closed its doors in 1994, the legacy of the Horne's Christmas Tree did not end with it. The tree’s spirit lives on, as the tradition was carried forward by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and other local organizations. Every year, the tree returns to its rightful place, continuing to bring joy to both old and new generations of Pittsburghers.
For those of us who grew up in the shadow of the old Horne’s department store, the tree holds a special place in our hearts. It evokes memories of simpler times—when families would bundle up in their warmest coats, scarves, and mittens to take in the beauty of the lights. Whether it was part of a shopping trip, a family outing, or simply a quiet moment of holiday reflection, the Horne’s Christmas Tree was a reminder of what makes this time of year so magical.
A New Chapter in Pittsburgh’s Holiday Story
Today, the Horne’s Christmas Tree still stands proudly in downtown Pittsburgh, a testament to the city’s enduring love for tradition. As the lights twinkle above the busy streets, they continue to inspire smiles, spark conversations, and fill hearts with the same joy they did all those years ago. For many, seeing the tree lit each year is an annual ritual—a reminder that some things, like the spirit of Christmas, remain constant even as the world around us changes.
Whether you’re a lifelong Pittsburgher or a newcomer to the city, the Horne’s Christmas Tree is a beautiful part of the holiday season—a symbol of Pittsburgh’s resilience, its commitment to community, and the joy that comes when we come together to celebrate what makes this city so special.
As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the Horne’s Christmas Tree—not just as a holiday decoration, but as a piece of Pittsburgh history that continues to brighten our city and our hearts. Here’s to many more years of twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the cherished memories this tree will continue to create for generations to come.