(KRON) -- After more than 30 years, Macy’s will not pay for a Christmas tree in Union Square.
Instead, a real tree will start a new holiday tradition.
The decades-long tradition of the Macy's-funded tree lighting up Union Square around the holidays will instead be replaced by a real tree funded by the city.
“A lot of people come here to take photos. So it does draw tourists' attention, which I know is very important for the city. They have a reputation to uphold. So I hope they do that,” said San Francisco resident Natali Impezzeeri.
Last year, Macy’s stopped financially backing a Santa in the square.
The city said it's committed to keeping San Francisco's holiday traditions alive, saying, "By investing in vibrant holiday experiences, we aim to bring joy to residents and visitors alike while supporting local businesses and driving economic activity throughout downtown."
Now, the longtime tenant will show their Christmas cheer solely through their own store decorations and the annual SF SCPA pet windows.
There will also still be a holiday market and activities to come.
”It’s always nice to have a real Christmas tree at Christmas time. All the big cities and the major cities, you go to, all the big cities and the major cities, you go to have a real tree and it gives a good feeling,” said tourist Janet Cobb.
”It’s something new, something different and just. Yeah, I mean, if they're putting out the same kind of decorations and stuff, it doesn't really make it that different either,” said Laura Alonso. “So, it's a bit of both new and old.”
The Christmas tree in Union Square will be up and illuminated by Black Friday.
