Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Announces Holiday Tree Jubilee

SPRINGFIELD — Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services (MLKFS), in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services (DYS), the Center for Human Development’s (CHD) division of Adolescent Re-entry Services, and Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, are hosting a Holiday Tree Jubilee for the communities it serves. The event will take place on Friday, Nov. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Greek Cultural Center, 22 St. George Road, Springfield.

“We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with DYS this year as we come together to kick off the holiday season for families in our community,” said Shannon Rudder, president and CEO of MLKFS. “This collaboration is more than just an event — it’s a heartfelt commitment to bringing joy, hope, and support to those who need it most during the holidays. As we unite to spread warmth and kindness, we are reminded of the power of community and the importance of lifting each other up. We are grateful for the opportunity to make this season a little brighter for the families we serve, and we look forward to the lasting impact of this partnership in the months ahead.”

Thanks to a generous donation by King Gray Coach Lines, there will be two free bus rides leaving the MLK Jr. Family Services Community Center at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Nov. 22 for families who want a ride to the Greek Cultural Center. Return rides will also be included and will transport your fully decorated Christmas tree. Return rides will depart from the Greek Cultural Center at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.

With the support of community sponsors, the event is entirely free, providing barrier-free enjoyment for the entire family. The event brings the holiday spirit to life with photos with Santa, carolers, a hot-chocolate station, dance performances, face painting, cookie decorating, karaoke, letters to Santa, and, of course, a decorated holiday tree raffle free to everyone, which includes 117 fully decorated trees. All trees are donated and decorated in a family-friendly theme to go home with the families in attendance.