Evergreen scent filled the crisp November air. Children laughed as they darted between towering trees, and the sound of bustling volunteers echoed across the lot at 12650 S. Harlem Ave. on Nov. 22 as the Palos Lions Club launched its annual Christmas tree sale. Nearly 700 freshly cut evergreens arrived on a massive flatbed truck, and the lot quickly transformed into a lively winter wonderland full of holiday cheer. Families wandered through the rows of trees searching for the perfect centerpiece while volunteers worked quickly to trim and stand the evergreens.
Volunteers included dozens of high school students, local political officials, and members of the Lions Club. They all pitched in to unload the trees and get them ready for sale. By midday, the lot was a fragrant forest of evergreens, each one lined up and prepared to bring holiday magic into homes across the community.
This year’s opening day was especially meaningful as the Palos Lions celebrated 76 years of service, continuing a tradition that dates back to the early 1950s, around 1953, when the club began selling Christmas trees to support its charitable mission.
Tree chair Dennis Hyker, who lives in Palos Heights, said the student volunteers are a highlight of the event. “It looks like about 100 student volunteers each year,” he said. “They come from Stagg, Chicago Christian, Shepard, Sandburg, Andrew, and from our Leo Clubs. It has been amazing to watch the younger generation get involved.”
This year, the lot is offering nearly 650 trees, with prices ranging from $40 to more than $200 for the largest evergreens.
“What makes our lot unique is that we are completely a volunteer group supporting local organizations and charitable causes,” Hyker said. “Our profits and donations from these tree sales help support our community. Our global motto is We Serve.”
The Palos Lions have been selling trees for over 60 years to raise funds that support local, regional, and even global causes. All funds raised from the event go toward charitable giving, student scholarships, and helping those in need. Over the years, the club has supported hundreds of organizations, including the Women’s Crisis Center, The Center of Palos Park, Special Olympics, the Ukrainian support fund, Together We Cope Food Pantry, Heartland Service Dogs, holiday food cards for families in need, local first responder recognition programs, and youth groups like Power Girls softball.
Children marveled at the height and shape of the trees while volunteers helped lift, trim, and tie them to car rooftops. For many locals, it marked the unofficial start of the holiday season.
Hyker said anyone interested in helping, even for just a few hours, can simply stop by the lot. “Drop by and talk to any member there,” he said. “Or give me a call at 708-770-7264.”
After more than seven decades, the Palos Lions’ tree lot continues to blend holiday cheer with service. Volunteers and families come together for a festive tradition that remains lively and heartwarming every year.
