The holiday spirit is in the air as the Christmas tree on Central Square shines bright.

As many holiday traditions have been canceled because of the pandemic, it didn't stop Youngstown from showcasing their annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony virtually. 

The Kulewsky family of Boardman and Lowellville donated the tree, being over 30 years old. Mark Kulewsky says his family owned it since it just three feet tall.

"Our parents had this tree up at their house and they always wanted to have it decorated and we finally got it donated here," Mark Kulewsky of Boardman said. 

On Wednesday night, his father, Pat Kulewsky, passed away from health issues.

"He would have been so excited to see this tree lit up," he said, "He was a very giving person... He would have enjoyed seeing giving to the community."

Before he passed, Kulewsky was able to see the tree being donated. 

"That just thrilled him to death to watch them take the tree and haul it off it was pretty exciting for him," Sherri Kulewsky said. 

Today was Kulewsky's funeral, and the tree lighting ceremony honored him with a moment of silence. 

"It took a sad day and made it beautiful for the family," Kulewsky said, "I know he's grinning ear to ear."

The tree is only the center around the holiday lights and decorations featured downtown. 

"Premier has their tower lit red and green for the holidays," Sharon Letson, Executive Director of Youngstown CityScape said, "We want people to come, put their family in the car and come downtown like they used to."

Letson said the Christmas tree will be up through December and the lights through February.