This year marks the 25th annual Grotto Pizza Parade of Trees at Harveys Lake. Since its inception, the Parade of Trees has raised more than $320,000 for local charities, through the continued participation of area businesses, the support of the general public and the generosity of the Joseph and Erma Paglianite Charitable Foundation which will add another $25,000 to collected donations again this year.
Due to the impact of COVID-19, there was no decorating party.
Instead, sponsoring businesses and their decorating teams hung ornaments independently at different times, to avoid large groups and maintain social distancing protocols. All trees were completed and ready for display by Nov. 24 inside the main dining room at Grotto Pizza Harveys Lake.
“This year presents a unique challenge in preparing and displaying The Parade of Trees. After discussion with participants, our customers, and our team, we decided to keep the tradition going, albeit with changes to maintain safety,” said Armand Mascioli, co-owner of Grotto Pizza, in a prepared release. “We feel it is particularly important to embrace the Christmas spirit this year, and I expect many of the participating charities could use the support more than ever.”
Businesses sponsor a tree in support of the charity of their choice. Visitors to Grotto Pizza Harveys Lake then “vote” with donations to that tree. The Parade of Trees will be on display through New Year’s Eve. Grotto Pizza at Harveys Lake has received official state certification for indoor dining to 50% capacity and follows all safety guidelines.
