The pair began building the structure on Tuesday and expect to complete the full assembly later today. Lights will be added on Friday, followed by several days of decorating. Schmitt said the tree will be fully finished in time for the Sunday Farmers Market.
This year’s installation marks a relocation for the project. For decades, the Shopping Cart Tree stood in the Edgemar courtyard behind Blue Bottle Coffee and Holy Grail Donuts. After renovations and new restaurant development at that site, the tree has shifted to the museum grounds. “We’re so happy to be here in this new space,” Schmitt said. “It’s good to have the cart tree back on Main Street.”
The 2025 version stands about 20 feet tall and is constructed from 57 red “kitty carts”—children’s grocery carts selected for their scale and affordability. The previous Main Street tree was significantly larger, built from 94 full-size carts and reaching roughly 35 feet.
Schmitt said the red color carries special meaning this year. After researching the symbolism of red trees, he chose “transformation” as the theme — a reflection of the project’s new location, the shift in size, and the spirit of seasonal renewal. “A sense of unity, hope, and transformation feels right,” he said.
Funding for the installation comes from the Main Street Merchants Association, which supports the annual build and welcomes community contributions to sustain the tradition.
The public tree-lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 7, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., featuring photos with Santa, a performance by the Santa Monica High School Choir, and holiday activities for families.
Now marking its 31st year on Main Street — and Schmitt’s 37th Shopping Cart Tree overall — the installation continues a tradition that began with a single cart he once noticed sitting alone in a park. Schmitt said shopping carts symbolize a wide range of experiences, from poverty and abundance to childhood independence and play. “There’s a sense of generosity and enjoyment wrapped up in something as simple as a cart,” he said.
Santa Monica Closeup continues documenting the city’s seasonal traditions and public art installations throughout the holidays.
No comments:
Post a Comment