Macy's Great Tree

Macy's Great Tree was a towering evergreen display at the entrance of Lenox Square Mall, standing between 70 and 90 feet tall and fully illuminated during the holiday season. The installation formed the visual centerpiece of the shopping center during Christmas festivities.

The tradition began in 1948 as a Rich's department store holiday display and continued after transitioning to Macy's ownership in 2006. The display was retired in December 2023, ending decades of seasonal installations.

For generations, this display served as the focal point of Atlanta's holiday season, drawing crowds who gathered for tree lighting celebrations that marked the beginning of Christmas festivities. The tradition held deep meaning for local families who returned year after year to experience this shared moment together.

The display stood at the main entrance of the shopping mall and was easy to spot upon arrival at the center. Visiting during the official lighting ceremony offered the best experience, though the decoration remained on view throughout the entire holiday season.

The display was featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1961, marking recognition of it as one of the largest department store Christmas displays in the Southeast. This national acknowledgment made it a distinctive symbol of Atlanta's holiday tradition.