For the past 14 years, The Gift Tree Project has been a holiday celebration that uplifts the entire community. In case you haven’t noticed, all of Academy Street and in some spots in the Downtown Park are a whole bunch of mid-sized Christmas trees! There is a wide variety to look at, ranging from traditional holiday options to those with flashy, unique themes. So what is the purpose of this tradition beyond making Downtown Cary look more festive?
Behind every tree is a family, school, or organization that registered to participate and to decorate their own tree. In fact, for 2025, there are 105 groups and organizations! Each tree has a sign indicating who is behind it and a QR code linking to where you can vote for your favorite! There is one vote per person and it closes when the clock strikes midnight on December 21 (vote before it is December 22!). The tree with the most votes will be announced on January 6, 2026. But what does winning mean?
Whoever’s tree gets the most votes wins $500, which will be donated to the 501 (c)(3) non-profit of their choice! There is also a second place prize of $250 and a third place prize of $100 to go to a non-profit of their choice as well. The winners of last year were ALS United (first place), Athens Drive High School Bands (second), and The Sweet Life – benefiting Mama Moses The Underground Railroad (third). Who will be the winners for 2025? That is up to you!
Be sure to vote before December 22 to support your favorite tree and this fun holiday project that helps bring the holiday spirit to Downtown Cary!