Peter Pendule, like many others, visited New York City for the holidays. But unlike most, he came from near the Canadian border with a single mission: to sell Christmas trees. Initially staying with a friend in Chelsea, Pendule now spends most of his time at “Le Chic Shack,” his small street cabin at Broadway and 73rd. Surrounded by trees for sale, he sleeps in a vehicle when not working.
Pendule is part of the seasonal shift of Christmas tree vendors, often called “tree men,” who set up on sidewalks in small shacks. For many New Yorkers, seeing freshly cut trees on city streets, filling the air with evergreen scent, is as iconic as the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Vendors have been selling trees on NYC sidewalks since 1938 after the City Council allowed it, defying Mayor Fiorello La Guardia’s crackdown.
This is Pendule’s fifth year in Manhattan, selling trees supplied by a family business from Quebec. He and his partner build a small shack for warmth as they work from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., using heaters to combat the cold. They scavenge wood from the streets to construct their shelter. Trees are priced at $30 per foot, and Pendule offers delivery and setup services. He sells wooden ornaments, snowmen, reindeer, and a wooden Star of David—items priced at $20.
Despite the rise of artificial trees, Pendule notes that both small and large trees find buyers, depending on apartment sizes. Beyond his holiday gig, he provides first aid products to companies and co-founded a nonprofit for people with disabilities. His annual NYC visit, although work-focused, is a tradition and a service he cherishes. He spends long hours interacting with passersby, selling trees, and sharing holiday spirit.
Though the days are long and the work is physical, Pendule has formed new traditions in New York. He collaborates with a local who creates colorful palm tree displays, and he organizes block parties with Santa and music. He also engages the community with Christmas coloring activities for kids. Pendule has built connections with locals, understanding their stories and becoming part of the holiday season for many.
Pendule will return home for Christmas, planning to celebrate with family, though he usually feels worn out by then. Until then, he continues selling trees and crafted decorations to those embracing the holiday spirit.
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com