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Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and Mayor Lori Lightfoot launches the search for the perfect tree to serve as the city’s official Christmas tree, according to the city’s website on Oct. 9, 2020.
The 107th tree will be erected in Millennium Park for the holiday season — lighting ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. CT on Friday, Nov. 22.
Grammy award-winning South African singer-songwriter Jonathan Butler will headline the ceremony. “The evening will also include performances from mariachi group Cielito Lindo and the cast of “Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish – The Musical,” as well as appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus (the mayor usually shows up, too),” according to Time Out.
Nominations for the 2020 Christmas tree ends Friday, Oct. 23. The DCASE reports the tree must be located less than 50 miles from Chicago’s Loop. However, trees located within 15 miles of Chicago will be given preference.
The tree — preferably a Norway Spruce or Fir — needs to be at least 45 feet tall. Unfortunately, pine trees are not eligible as they are not sturdy enough to support the lights and decorations. The city will not consider any tree that does not meet the criteria.
“Millennium Park is open daily, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. including the Great Lawn area with social distancing circles,” writes the city’s website. Masks and physical distancing are required when visiting. The park’s website is set up to assist visitors to plan their visit — including where to enter and exit, as well as which facilities are open.
Further information on how to submit a nomination can be found on the City of Chicago’s website at chicago.gov/dcase.
Written by Cathy Milne-Ware
Sources:
City of Chicago: The City of Chicago is Looking for the Perfect Christmas Tree
Time Out: City of Chicago Christmas Tree
Featured Image Courtesy of Tony Webster’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image by Micheal Barera Courtesy of Wikimedia – Creative Commons License
