70th Annual Christmas Tree Lot: A Holiday Tradition Supporting Local Youth
The Christmas shopping season is in full swing, and for many families in Manatee County, it’s time to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. The 70th annual Christmas tree lot hosted by the Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County offers trees and a cherished holiday tradition supporting local youth programs.
They are located in McKelvy Park beside the Westgate Shopping Center at 3913 Manatee Ave. W. in Bradenton, the lot is open through December 15 or while supplies last. Featuring fresh Frasier firs from North Carolina and festive wreaths, the lot has become a staple of the season for families throughout the area. Volunteers, including members of the Bradenton Kiwanis Club, are on hand to help visitors select and secure their perfect tree.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County trace their origins to 1946, when the Bradenton Kiwanis Club, alongside dedicated individuals and civic groups, initiated the Boys Club of Manatee County. The club began operations in a repurposed wooden building that had previously served as a field house for major league baseball teams training in Bradenton.
In 1951, the Bradenton Kiwanis Club further demonstrated its commitment by constructing a gymnasium for the Boys Club for $80,000. This support was instrumental in the club's early development and its mission to serve the youth of Manatee County.
Over the years, the Bradenton Kiwanis Club has supported the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County through various initiatives, including the annual Christmas tree lot, which has become a longstanding community tradition.
The Christmas tree lot is more than a fundraiser; it’s a cornerstone of community spirit. Proceeds from the sales directly fund the Boys and Girls Club’s enrichment programs, including fine arts, computer labs, and tutoring. These programs provide meals for children and impact the lives of 2,800 youth served by six clubs across the county.
As one of the longest-running traditions in Manatee County, the tree lot symbolizes more than the holiday season. It reflects a commitment to the community and the next generation. Shoppers return year after year, drawn by the quality of the trees and the knowledge that their purchase makes a difference.
With 70 years of history, this tradition shows no signs of slowing down, ensuring that holiday cheer and community support remain intertwined in Manatee County.