The Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that the Sbrizza family, of Fortier Drive, has generously donated a beautiful blue spruce for the downtown Christmas display in Central Square.

Patrick and Jolene Sbrizza (and their three boys) purchased their home in 2017. The beautiful blue spruce was already there when they bought the property and the family has enjoyed decorating it for Christmas each year. 

According to Lisa Clark, Public Works, the family decided that the tree was outgrowing its space and decided to donate the tree to the City of Rochester, for all to enjoy.

“The Sbrizza’s tree is approximately 30 feet tall and will make the perfect centerpiece for the downtown holiday display,” said Clark. “The tree will be cut, transported, and put into position on November 16, 2022.”

The Savatree Company (formally Urban Tree) is donating its time and equipment to remove and transport the tree downtown. They will work in collaboration with Public Works to complete the project. Public Works will be stringing lights and hanging decorations soon after.

A Tree Lighting Ceremony, presented by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for Friday, December 2, 2022, at 5:30pm. The annual Christmas Parade is scheduled for Sunday, December 4, 2022, at 3pm. 

This year’s tree decorations have been made by Rochester Elementary School Students and the children of the YMCA Child Care Center.  The students of the Monarch School of New England will continue the 20-year tradition of trimming the tree with Public Works.