✨ NOTE: This article is from 2024! ✨
For the most up-to-date information on this year’s holiday events and the Upside-Down Christmas Tree, visit this year’s event page!
That’s right – we are installing a 40′ Upside Down Christmas Tree at Hermann Monument! The tree will be cut down and installed on Tuesday, November 26th, and lit on Wednesday, November 27th. Just in time for the 36th Annual Parade of Lights, happening Friday, November 29th at 6pm.
As the holiday season arrives in New Ulm, the “Christmas City” is embracing a spectacular new tradition—a 40-foot upside-down Christmas tree proudly displayed at the iconic Hermann Monument. This unique installation not only celebrates the city’s deep German heritage but also showcases the incredible creativity and collaboration of our community. From its historical significance to the inspiring story of how it came to be, this tree is more than just a festive decoration—it’s a symbol of unity, tradition, and holiday cheer. Read on to discover the fascinating history behind the upside-down Christmas tree and the remarkable efforts that brought this one-of-a-kind display to life.
Why is the Christmas Tree Upside Down?
A Nod to German Tradition in New Ulm, the “Christmas City”
Hanging a Christmas tree upside down may seem unusual today, but this display reflects an ancient European tradition with roots in Germany and early Christian history. One possible origin dates back to the 8th century, when Saint Boniface (ca. 675–754), an English Benedictine monk and missionary known as the Apostle of Germany, hung a fir tree upside down to represent the Holy Trinity. This act helped shift pagan worshipers from their veneration of an oak tree to embracing Christianity.
In later centuries, families in Central and Eastern Europe adopted the upside-down tree as both a practical and decorative tradition, suspending trees from ceilings to save space and showcase unique ornaments.
Here in New Ulm, our 40-foot upside-down tree finds a fitting home at the Hermann Monument. Hermann the German symbolizes unity, strength, and cultural pride, commemorating the triumph of Germanic tribes over Roman forces in 9 A.D. Just as Hermann connects us to our German heritage, this tree reminds us of the rich history and traditions that continue to inspire joy and wonder today. Embracing this old-world tradition connects us to our roots while celebrating New Ulm’s reputation as the “Christmas City.”
While you’re here, we encourage you to visit downtown New Ulm, where the holiday spirit shines brightly. Stroll the streets lined with real Christmas trees, admire the lighted wreaths made from fresh garland adorning the downtown, and enjoy the festive storefronts decorated by local businesses.
This tree brings joy, conversation, and a reminder of the diverse ways Christmas has been celebrated throughout history. May it bring wonder and holiday cheer to all! Happy Holidays from New Ulm!
How This Tree Came to Be
This spectacular upside-down Christmas tree is a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and community spirit that defines New Ulm. Led by the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce, this unique display was brought to life through the hard work and generosity of many.
It all started with local residents Jim and Mary Lou Schwartz, who plans to build a home on a plot of land here in New Ulm in the spring. The property included two 40-foot Christmas trees that needed to be removed for construction. Rather than let them go to waste, Jim offered one of the trees to the Chamber of Commerce.
From there, the idea took shape—what could we do with such a magnificent tree? Someone suggested, “What if we hang it upside down?” It’s a tradition rooted in German heritage, and as the “Christmas City,” New Ulm felt like the perfect place to bring this custom to life.
Making it happen required creativity, dedication, and teamwork. Rick Kamm, a Chamber board member and owner of the B&L Bar, played a pivotal role, reaching out to local businesses and securing key support. Schaefer Crane generously donated their expertise and equipment to hang the tree, using the very first crane they purchased when their business started in the 1970s! Kraus Tree Service also volunteered their time to safely cut the tree down, and New Ulm Public Utilities donated their linemen’s time to decorate it with lights provided by the Chamber.
This incredible display would not have been possible without the hard work and generosity of these individuals and businesses. Together, they’ve helped create something truly unique for our community to enjoy this holiday season.
Click here to watch a short news clip about this project!
A heartfelt thank you to:
- Jim & Mary Lou Schwartz
- Rick Kamm and the B&L Bar
- Schaefer Crane
- Kraus Tree Service
- New Ulm Public Utilities
- New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce
We hope this tree brings joy, wonder, and a sense of community pride to all who see it.
Happy Holidays from New Ulm!
Click here to see more Holiday Events taking place in New Ulm, and visit the Community Calendar for a list of all community events.