Eagle Couple Donates 2026 Idaho Capitol Christmas Tree
Residents Dr. Mick and Ruth Mickelson provided the official tree for this year's state holiday celebration.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Philanthropy
Dr. Mick and Ruth Mickelson of Eagle have donated the official 2026 Idaho State Christmas Tree. The tree is set to be transported to the Statehouse in Boise this November.
Why it matters
This annual donation continues a long-standing state tradition that centers the holiday season at the Idaho Capitol. It highlights a collaborative effort between private citizens and state agencies to organize the capital's centerpiece display.
The tree cutting operation begins at 9 a.m. on November 24, 2026, with a street closure on Jefferson Street scheduled between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to accommodate the transport.
The players
Dr. Mick and Ruth Mickelson
These Eagle, Idaho residents are the private citizens donating the official 2026 state Christmas tree.
Idaho Transportation Department
This state agency is responsible for the logistics and physical transport of the tree to the Statehouse.
Boise Police Department
The local municipal law enforcement agency will assist in securing the route during the transport process.
Idaho State Police
The state-level law enforcement division is tasked with providing an escort for the tree as it travels to the Capitol.
The details
The Idaho Transportation Department will manage the haul of the tree to the Capitol Building. Local law enforcement, including the Boise Police Department and the Idaho State Police, will provide an escort for the transport route through State and 16th Streets.
Timeline
November 24, 2026: The tree will be cut and transported to the Capitol.
November 25, 2026: Crews will begin decorating the tree with LED lights.
Market Landscape
The donation follows the established precedent of the Idaho Capitol Christmas Tree tradition. This year marks a continuation of the state's reliance on public-private partnerships to maintain long-standing seasonal institutional displays.
Residents and visitors should prepare for potential traffic delays near the Capitol building on November 24 due to the planned street closures. These disruptions will specifically impact travel on Jefferson Street between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
The takeaway
This donation serves as a prime example of community participation in state institutional events. Citizens can look forward to viewing the tree once the Department of Administration completes the holiday lighting process.
What happens next
The tree cutting and transport are scheduled for November 24, 2026, followed by the commencement of decorating with LED lights on November 25, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable efforts on the Idaho Philanthropy page.
