Lewes plants new Christmas tradition

The City of Lewes has a new Christmas tradition taking root in Zwaanendael Park.

Instead of having a large tree cut down, transported and installed each year for the holiday season, the city planted its own tree this year.

Lewes Parks Administrator Giulia Kirsch said sustainability was the motive behind the change.

“We’re a tree city, so we decided that it sets a good example, planting a tree that will be used in perpetuity that won’t affect our tree canopy,” Kirsch said.

A crew from Sussex Tree used an auger to dig a hole, then a forklift to lower the 14-foot Norway spruce Nov. 20.

Lewes Tree Commissioner Mardi Thompson kept a close eye as the tree was carefully maneuvered into place.

“I love having a nice, big evergreen tree. It helps with tree canopy, shade and habitat. It will be a lovely thing in the city,” Thompson said.

The tree stands on the Savannah Road side of the park, the opposite side from previous years.

Lewes City Manager Ellen Lorraine McCabe said the annual sing-along and tree-lighting ceremony will take place, as usual, right after the Lewes Christmas parade on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 7.

“Planting a tree does give an opportunity for a tree to grow and take root instead of being harvested,” McCabe said in announcing the change at the Nov. 18 mayor and city council meeting.

The city is also installing a menorah in the park.