Gov. Evers to Host Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Wisconsin State Capitol

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers invites Wisconsinites to attend the annual Capitol Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, which will take place at noon on Thurs., Dec. 5, 2024, at the Wisconsin State Capitol. The Capitol Tree is displayed in the rotunda of the Wisconsin State Capitol building throughout the holiday season, serving as a centerpiece of festivity for those visiting and working at the Capitol. Honoring the theme, “125 Years of Wisconsin’s State Parks,” this year, the tree was donated by Rick Burke and the Burke family from their home in Rhinelander. This is the second consecutive year that the Capitol tree was harvested from the Rhinelander area.

“We are so excited to kick off the holiday season in Wisconsin as we gather to officially light this year’s Capitol Tree, which is decorated each year by ornaments made by kids from across Wisconsin,” said Gov. Evers. “The tree lighting ceremony is an annual tradition here at the Capitol, and this year, we’re excited to not only celebrate the holidays but also kick off the anniversary celebration of 125 years of Wisconsin’s State Parks in 2025. I want to thank Rick and the Burke family, and I encourage Wisconsinites and travelers from near and far to visit the Wisconsin State Capitol this holiday season and check out this year’s tree in the Capitol rotunda.”

Each year, the Capitol Holiday Tree is decorated with handmade ornaments from kids, students, and families from every corner of the state. This year, students were encouraged to explore Wisconsin’s state parks for inspiration by reflecting on the state’s beautiful and diverse natural spaces, significant historical markers, and the unparalleled recreational and communal value of Wisconsin State Parks.

Beginning with the establishment of Wisconsin’s first state park in 1900 with Interstate State Park along the St. Croix River in Northwestern Wisconsin, today, Wisconsin boasts over 50 state parks across the state for kids and families to enjoy in all four seasons. Whether exploring the bluffs at Devil’s Lake, swimming in the waters of Lake Superior at Big Bay, sledding down the hills at Kinnickinnic, or hiking along the sand dunes at Kohler-Andrae, Wisconsin’s state parks have provided unforgettable experiences for generations. This year’s theme further exemplifies the character and strength of Wisconsinites, the proud and rich history of conservation and protecting natural resources, and celebrates the state’s rich past, vibrant present, and limitless future.

Additionally exciting, beginning December 2, State Park admission passes for the 2025 season will be available for purchase. Thanks to legislation signed by Gov. Evers earlier this year, State Park admission passes will now be valid for a full year from the date of purchase. Wisconsinites and visitors can learn more about purchasing their 2025 State Park admission pass here.

Visitors can view the tree at the Capitol Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and throughout the holiday season during visitor hours. The Capitol is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays. The Capitol Holiday Tree will be on display through the end of the year. Capitol hours and information are available here.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.