In 2007, the BID planted a 20-foot evergreen tree (species Cedrus deodara) in the large circle garden at Eastern Market Metro Plaza to honor our founding President George Didden III. The tree is beautifully decorated by the BID’s “men in blue” every December, and illuminated in front of the Capitol Hill community to kick off the holiday season.

Kathy Didden, wife of the late George Didden, has proudly flipped the switch to light the tree every year since its planting. Festive cheers and caroling always follow the grand illumination of the tree, while friends gather for hot chocolate and holiday treats. Community participation in the annual tree lighting grows every year to celebrate the season while honoring the memory of our beloved friend George.