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Heather Groll 518-474-5987 | heather.groll@ogs.ny.gov
September 18, 2020
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EMPIRE STATE PLAZA ICE RINK WILL NOT OPEN DUE TO COVID-19, HOLIDAY TREES WILL SHINE TO CELEBRATE THE SEASONOGS Commences Search for Plaza and East Capitol Park Trees |
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New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner RoAnn Destito today announced that the Empire State Plaza ice skating season and annual holiday tree-lighting and fireworks will not be held this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, the two holiday trees that traditionally grace East Capitol Park and the Empire State Plaza will once again stand as symbols of the season beginning December 1, weather permitting, through early January.
“Out of an abundance of caution and with the health of the community and our OGS staff continuing to be at the forefront of our minds, we have made the decision not to hold the annual tree-lighting event and to cancel ice skating activities this winter at the Empire State Plaza,” Commissioner Destito said. “Still, the holiday spirit at the Plaza will endure, and we plan to continue the wonderful Capital Region holiday tradition of lighting trees on the Plaza and in East Capitol Park for our neighbors and visitors to enjoy.”
The Commissioner also announced that the State is seeking two New York State spruce trees to be displayed in front of the Capitol this holiday season. Over the years, many generous families have donated the beautiful trees that are lit up in East Capitol Park and on the Empire State Plaza.
The tree should be a spruce between 35 and 55 feet tall, easily accessible on the property, and clear of power lines. Proximity to the Capital Region is ideal.
If you have a tree you would like to be considered, please contact Kevin Ciampi at OGS by calling (518) 474-8860 or emailing Kevin.Ciampi@ogs.ny.gov and include your name, address where the tree is located, and a contact phone number. If a photo of the tree is available, please include it in an email.
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