Michigan’s 2026 Christmas Tree Has a Pretty Cool Family Story

It’s the first day of fall, which means Halloween is just around the corner. But it also means Christmas will be here before you know it. And Michigan is already getting prepared by selecting the official state Christmas tree.

Michigan’s 2026 Christmas Tree Comes From the U.P.

Since 1987, Michigan has had some awesome trees on display at the State Capitol, loaded with lights and decorations. This year’s tree is coming from the Upper Peninsula, and it has a pretty cool family story behind it.

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A 60-foot spruce growing on the property of the Riccio family in Iron Mountain has been selected as Michigan’s official Christmas tree for 2026. The family has had the tree since they bought their home in 1986. But after nearly 40 years, the tree has simply outgrown the property. The Riccio family says they’re excited and honored to donate the tree to the state.

The Christmas Tree’s Trip to Lansing

The tree is scheduled to be harvested November 5 and transported to the State Capitol in Lansing. Once it arrives, Lansing’s forestry team will prepare the tree for the lighting and decorations developed by the Michigan Capitol Commission and the Lansing Board of Water & Light.

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This year’s tree will be the 26th selected from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula since Christmas trees began being placed at the State Capitol in 1987. It will also be only the second state Christmas tree to come from Iron Mountain.

When Will Michigan’s Christmas Tree Be Lit?

The entire process will culminate Friday, November 20, during Lansing’s annual Silver Bells in the City celebration, according to ABC 12.

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That’s when the 60-foot spruce from Iron Mountain will officially become Michigan’s Christmas tree for the holiday season.