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With the theme of “Celebrating Together,” the Shapiro-Davis Administration hosted the annual Harrisburg tradition, lighting a 24-foot Douglas Fir from Carbon County in the Capitol Rotunda decorated by Pennsylvania’s children and older adults.
Harrisburg, PA - On December 10, 2024, Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, and Department of General Services Secretary Reggie McNeil kicked off the holiday season at the Capitol in Harrisburg with the 2024 Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
"I’m thrilled to once again celebrate this cherished holiday tradition by lighting the beautiful 24-foot Douglas Fir from Carbon County," said Governor Shapiro. "This season is all about coming together, and I hope every Pennsylvanian finds time to reflect, connect with loved ones, and embrace the joy of the holidays. From Lori, our children, and me, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a wonderful New Year."
The tree is a 24-foot Douglas Fir from Crystal Spring Tree Farm in Lehighton, Carbon County. It is decorated with 1,250 LED lights and more than 700 handmade ornaments donated by Pre-K for PA(opens in a new tab) students and older adults from across the Commonwealth. This is the tallest tree to grace the Capitol Rotunda in at least 10 years.
"I want to recognize all of the state workers who have made today possible - the folks from General Services who put up the tree and all of these wonderful decorations, and the team at Commonwealth Media Services that helps produce this event every year. Your hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it is invaluable to making the Capitol a great place to visit and enjoy this festive time of year," said Lieutenant Governor Davis.
The Governor was also joined by Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Fred Strathmeyer, Reverend Anjel Scarborough of All Saints Episcopal Church in Hershey, PA, and dozens of Pre-K for PA students and staff for the holiday celebration.
The Central Dauphin High School Choir led the audience in singing Christmas carols and Santa Claus made an appearance. In addition to the Rotunda Tree, there is another Douglas Fir - also from Crystal Spring Tree Farm - located outdoors on the Capitol steps.
The tree in the Rotunda will be lit daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and the tree on the Capitol steps will be lit daily from 5:00 PM to midnight through January 8, 2025.