City Opens Big Tree Park For Weddings

Now future brides and grooms can make a Glendora landmark a centerpiece of their weddings.

The large Moreton Bay Fig that stands in the corner of the aptly named 665 S Santa Fe Ave, has long been a fixture in Glendora, perhaps long before Glendora became a city in 1911.

Early newspaper reports indicate that the tree was planted in 1884 by Glendora resident Edgar J. Owens.

But the newly renovated park is enjoying newfound attention, and now the city is renting out the 7,500 sq.-foot-park for small weddings.

Renovated in October 2010, the park has a new gazebo, picnic tables and benches.

For $200 and a $100 deposit, the park can be rented for two hours for the wedding ceremony. One table and 50 chairs will also be provided by the city’s Community Services Department.

Situated within a residential neighborhood, the park would be a location for the wedding ceremony, not for receptions as there are no public restrooms in the area, said Community Services Director La Shawn Butler.

In the past, the city had received inquiries from couples looking to host their wedding there, but had to turn them away because weddings were prohibited at the location.

Big Tree Park has hosted two weddings since its renovation.

“So far we haven’t had any reaction from the surrounding residents, but again it’s not publicized much, and we have been somewhat restrictive on what events we would allow,” said Butler.

For more information on renting Big Tree Park for an event, contact the Glendora Community Services Department at (626) 914-8228.