50-foot-tall Norway spruce chosen as the 2026 Chicago Christmas Tree

The massive evergreen comes courtesy of a suburban Campton Hills family. Here's everything to know about the tree and this year's lighting ceremony in Millennium Park.

the City of Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Millennium Park — Source/Chicago Loop Alliance

Elena Smentkowski

– Staff Writer

· November 2, 2026

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Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has chosen a 50-foot-tall Norway spruce as the 113th annual Chicago Christmas tree, according to a report from ABC7 Chicago.

The tree comes by donation from the Clark family of suburban Campton Hills, who first planted the sapling back in 2004.

The tree will be on display in Millennium Park beginning with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. on Friday, November 20, through January 10, 2027.

The 109th annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park; January 2023. — Photo/DCASE

The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will feature live performances, seasonal treats, multiple viewing areas, and the grand finale tree illumination.

Those who can’t attend in person can watch via a city livestream.

Learn more here.