The New York City Parks Department launched Mulchfest, its annual Christmas tree recycling program, on Dec. 26. The initiative encourages New Yorkers to recycle their trees at designated parks and green spaces, where they are turned into mulch to support city trees, gardens, and parks.
This year’s Mulchfest includes 75 drop-off sites citywide, with nine locations in the Bronx, which include Metropolitan Oval Parkchester, Pelham Bay Park, Soundview Park, Friends of Brook Park Community Garden and Van Cortlandt Park at the Golf Course. The program will run through Jan. 12, with a special Chipping Weekend scheduled for Jan. 11 and 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the weekend, participants can watch their trees be chipped and take home a bag of mulch for their own use.
“Mulchfest is as much about nourishing our city’s living infrastructure as it is about building community,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Last year, over 46,000 trees were recycled, and we’re hoping to exceed that number in 2025.”
Trees dropped off at Mulchfest sites must be free of decorations, lights, and stands. The mulch created during the program is used to enhance city landscapes by adding nutrients to soil, retaining moisture, and deterring weeds.
Citi, the event’s sponsor, emphasized the program’s environmental benefits. “There is no better way to close out the holidays than by bringing your tree to Mulchfest and watching it turn into something that helps our city become greener,” said Ed Skyler, Head of Enterprise Services & Public Affairs at Citi.
In addition to Bronx locations, drop-off sites include Prospect Park in Brooklyn, Marcus Garvey Park in Manhattan, Clove Lakes Park in Staten Island, and Juniper Valley Park in Queens, among others. Five new locations have been added this year, along with expanded drop-off options at Brooklyn Bridge Park.
For a full list of Mulchfest drop-off and chipping sites, visit www.nyc.gov/mulchfest.
