West Palm Beach officials are busy preparing for the start of the city’s annual Holiday in Paradise celebration. 700 tons of sand will be delivered to Centennial Square next week, where artisans will sculpt the world’s only 35‑foot‑tall tree made entirely of sand, affectionately called the “Sandi Tree.”
Sand arrives, construction begins
The massive sand shipment is scheduled to arrive before the end of the week, giving crews a narrow window to shape the towering structure. Once the sand is in place, skilled volunteers and city staff will work through the weekend to form the intricate branches and trunk that will later be illuminated for the holiday lighting ceremony.
Lighting ceremony on Dec. 3
The Sandi Tree will be officially lit on December 3, marking the official start of Holiday in Paradise. The ceremony will feature a brief remarks segment from city leaders, a musical performance by a local choir, and the first glow of the tree’s lights, which will remain on display throughout the season.
Live coverage and community involvement
Residents and visitors will be able to watch the lighting live via the Sandi Tree Skycam, with WPBF 25 News serving as the exclusive television partner for the feed. The Skycam will also provide continuous views of the tree as it stands in Centennial Square, allowing families to enjoy the festive centerpiece from home or while strolling through downtown.
Local businesses are encouraged to join the celebration by offering holiday promotions and decorations that complement the sand‑tree theme. The city’s tourism office has highlighted the Sandi Tree as a unique attraction that draws both locals and tourists, boosting the downtown economy during the holiday period.
What the Sandi Tree means for the community
Beyond its novelty, the sand tree reflects West Palm Beach’s commitment to family‑friendly, faith‑affirming public events that bring neighbors together. The Holiday in Paradise festivities have become a staple of the city’s cultural calendar, providing a safe, outdoor gathering place for families to celebrate the season.
Mayor [Name] praised the project, noting that the Sandi Tree “showcases our city’s creativity and dedication to creating joyful experiences for our families.” The mayor also emphasized that the event aligns with the city’s broader goals of supporting local businesses and fostering a strong sense of community.
Plan your visit
Centennial Square is open to the public throughout the holiday season, and parking is available at nearby municipal lots. The city encourages attendees to dress warmly and practice standard safety measures while enjoying the sand‑tree display.
For the latest updates on the Holiday in Paradise schedule, including additional events such as a holiday market, live music series, and a children’s parade, residents can follow the city’s official social‑media channels or visit the West Palm Beach website.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
