Meet the Capitol Christmas Tree: Gigantic Eagle, Michigan Spruce

Well, Michigan, it's here—that magical time of year! This Friday, November 23, 2024, marks the official lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree in Lansing. The Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) has handpicked another towering symbol of the holiday spirit—the state Christmas tree. This year, it's a 60-foot beast of a spruce from the bustling metropolis of Eagle, Michigan. This giant will be officially lit Friday, along with a sign-a-long from American Idol's David Archuleta following the Silver Bells in the City Parade.

According to the DTMB press release, Rich and Dorcas Albertson have lovingly donated this fine specimen after 27 years of driveway warfare. Who knew a tree could outgrow its welcome?

Unveiling Michigan's Official 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree

Michigan.gov

The Albertsons, who have been battling this behemoth since it began encroaching on their driveway, said, "It's bittersweet," donating spruce. Though it has been a beautiful part of their home for 27 years, they figured if they had to bring the monster down, what better way to go out than standing tall in Lansing as Michigan's Capitol Christmas Tree?

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If you're keeping score, this is only the second tree from Clinton County and the 14th from Michigan's Lower Peninsula since this tradition kicked off in 1987.

When the 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree Arrives in Lansing

Canva

The spruce was harvested on Friday, November 1, because trees can't just call an Uber and get to Lansing. The Michigan Association of Timbermen, Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, and DTMB's Christmas tree crew teamed up to handle that, along with some Boy Scouts in Lansing for the untying ceremony.

The tree has been hoisted into its place near Capitol and East Michigan in Downtown Lansing. From there, it was decorated but not lighted. The official lighting of Michigan's Capitol Christmas tree will take place this Friday night, November 22, 2024, as part of Silver Bells in the City, which will get underway at 5 p.m. in downtown Lansing.

The Christmas Tree Ship's Century-Long Rest in Lake Michigan

In December 1912, the Rouse Simmons sailed with a deck and cargo of evergreens from Thompson Michigan. But when a winter storm arose, the crew was unable to battle the waves and, the ship was lost to the depths of Lake Michigan.

See the Christmas Tree Ship today, where it rests, covered with Zebra mussels, about 12 miles northeast of Two Rivers, Wisconsin

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

How to Find the Right 'Feel' For Your Michigan Christmas Tree

How heavy are your ornaments? Will your pets be climbing it? Do you hate itchy needles? Finding the right Christmas Tree can be challenging, here are some tips from Michigan State University on how to find the perfect tree for your family this season.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Source: Meet the Capitol Christmas Tree: Gigantic Eagle, Michigan Spruce