Chicago Opened Submissions for Official Christmas Tree
The city is seeking a fir or Norway spruce to serve as the centerpiece of this year's Millennium Park display.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Seasonal Events
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The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events has officially opened the search for the city's annual Christmas tree. Homeowners within 50 miles of the Loop are invited to submit trees that meet specific size and species requirements for the holiday season.
Why it matters
The selected tree serves as the central visual attraction for citywide holiday festivities held in Millennium Park. Finding a suitable local donor allows the city to maintain a multi-decade tradition that defines the local winter atmosphere.
Candidates must be at least 45 feet tall and located within a 50-mile radius of Chicago's Loop. While fir trees and Norway spruce are preferred, pine trees are ineligible for selection.
The players
Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
This municipal agency is responsible for managing the city's public programs, art initiatives, and major community gatherings.
Millennium Park
This major public space in downtown Chicago serves as the primary site for the city's signature holiday tree installation.
The details
To enter, residents must provide owner contact details, a brief tree description, and at least two photos of the tree. The selected specimen will stand as the focal point of the park's celebrations throughout the winter months.
Timeline
Submissions for the tree are open through October 23, 2026.
The official illumination is scheduled to begin on November 20, 2026.
The tree display will remain lit through January 10, 2027.
Roadmap
This tradition highlights the city's long-standing reliance on private donations from suburban and urban residents to source its iconic holiday centerpiece. This annual search mirrors broader urban engagement strategies that prioritize community-led contributions over commercial sourcing.
Residents who own a sufficiently tall fir or Norway spruce may nominate their tree to represent the city throughout the holiday season. The final selection will impact the landscape of Millennium Park for the duration of the winter festivities.
The takeaway
If you have a tree meeting the height requirements, verify its species before applying as pines are not accepted. Ensuring your photos provide a clear view of the tree's health and stature is essential for the selection committee's review process.
Further reading
Learn more about upcoming city celebrations on the Chicago Seasonal Events page.
Live Poll
Would you donate a tree from your property for a public holiday display in your community?
