Chicago's Grand Spruce: The Heartbeat of a Holiday Tradition

And just like that, the holiday season truly feels like it’s upon us here in Chicago. The city’s official Christmas tree, you see, has finally made its grand entrance, settling into its familiar spot at Millennium Park. It’s a moment, frankly, that many of us eagerly anticipate each year — a true signal that the festive spirit is about to fully bloom across the city.

This year’s magnificent center-piece? A truly stunning 68-foot Colorado Blue Spruce, a tree that traveled all the way from Plainfield. Quite the journey, wouldn't you say, to become the heart of Chicago’s holiday celebration? You’ll find it standing tall and proud right there at Washington Street and Michigan Avenue, poised, really, for its big moment.

The much-awaited 110th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is, incidentally, slated for Friday, November 17th, at 6 PM. So mark your calendars, because it’s not just about flipping a switch; it's an event, a real gathering, a collective gasp of delight as those lights flicker to life. And it signifies, doesn't it, the start of something truly special.

Now, while the tree has been a fixture in Millennium Park since 2015, this cherished tradition actually stretches back much, much further – all the way to 1907, to be precise. For many, many years, the tree took pride of place at Daley Plaza. But a change of scenery happened a few years back, bringing this iconic symbol of cheer to its current, equally splendid home. It’s a bit of history, a bit of evolution, all wrapped up in one twinkling tradition.

But who, you might wonder, is behind this year's generous gift? Well, the Rinkema family from Plainfield, of course! They are the kind folks who donated this splendid spruce. Imagine, they planted this very tree some 28 years ago — a little sapling then, and now a towering beacon of joy for millions. And yes, they’re absolutely thrilled, honestly, to be a part of it all, planning to attend the lighting ceremony and witness their tree transform. It’s a lovely, human story, isn't it, nestled within the larger spectacle.

The city's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, or DCASE as it’s often called, is the team responsible for scouting out these beauties. They’re always on the hunt, you see, for a "beautiful, full tree" — a tree that can truly stand up to the occasion, visually, you know? And each year, it’s a donation; a kind gesture from a family, much like the Rinkemas, sharing a piece of their home with the entire city.

The tree’s arrival, really, sets the stage for a whole season of festive fun in Chicago. Think about it: the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink will be open for gliding and giggles, and of course, the ever-popular Christkindlmarket will be buzzing with crafts and hot cider. So, yes, the spruce is more than just a tree; it’s the grand curtain raiser for Chicago’s magnificent holiday spectacle. And we, for one, simply cannot wait.