A tree, a promise, a memory: Ballymena marks Holocaust Remembrance

A living symbol of remembrance now stands in the heart of Ballymena after a ‘Tree of Hope’ was planted in People’s Park to commemorate the millions murdered during the Holocaust.

The commemorative cherry tree, accompanied by an inscribed plaque, was planted on Friday 27 February 2026 during a special civic ceremony hosted by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, alongside pupils from Cambridge House Grammar School.

Set against the backdrop of People’s Park, the ceremony brought together civic leadership and young people in a shared act of remembrance — a visible commitment to ensuring the lessons of history are neither forgotten nor disconnected from the present.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Minford said:

“The cherry tree will act as a reminder of the strength that can grow from even the darkest times. We are here today not just remembering the past, but showing our commitment to a future built on understanding, kindness and peace.

“It is an honour to play a part in this local ‘living legacy’ civic tribute. We wanted to work closely with schools to help students understand the lessons of the past and connect them to the present, fostering empathy and discussion across generations.”

The planting reflected the 2026 Holocaust Memorial Day theme, “Bridging Generations”, underscoring the importance of intergenerational understanding.

By involving school pupils directly in the ceremony, the event sought to connect historical memory with the responsibility carried by future generations.

Now permanently rooted in People’s Park, the cherry tree stands as a lasting symbol of remembrance, resilience and hope — a quiet but powerful reminder in a public space that even in the aftermath of profound darkness, communities can choose understanding, kindness and peace.