The City of Chicago’s official Christmas Tree was lit up Friday evening, bringing holiday spirit and joy to hundreds who gathered for the illumination in Millenium Park.
Reaching the height of a six-story building, this year’s tree is a 68-foot-tall Norway Spruce that grew up in north suburban Glenview.
Adorned with 39,000 feet of string lights carrying 119,000 LED bulbs, the 2025 tree is one of the largest in city history.
Crowds gathered around the tree in anticipation of the lighting that took place around 6:25 p.m. Friday, with parts of Michigan Avenue closed to traffic for the event.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the crowd ahead of the lighting, followed by an especially jolly guest: Santa.
After the tree’s switch was flipped, fireworks erupted to mark the completion of the beloved annual holiday tradition.
The 112th City of Chicago Christmas Tree will remain on display through early January.
Last year, the Chicago’s Christmas tree came from Logan Square. In 2023 and 2022, the Christmas trees came from the Chicago suburbs.
Several suburbs also lit their Christmas Trees Friday, with many considering the official start to the holiday season now underway.
Check out NBC Chicago’s list of holiday dates to save to ensure you won’t miss any opportunities for festive fun in the area this season.
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