HARRISBURG, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis ushered in the holiday season Monday with the annual Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, drawing hundreds to the Rotunda for one of Harrisburg’s most beloved traditions.
This year’s celebration, built around the theme of “Timeless Traditions,” featured the lighting of a 25-foot Douglas Fir from Carbon County — the tallest Christmas tree installed in the Capitol in more than a decade. Adorned with more than 2,400 LED lights and 1,700 handmade ornaments crafted by Pre-K for PA children and older adults across the Commonwealth, the tree stood as a symbol of statewide creativity and community spirit.
Shapiro told attendees that the holiday season “represents the best of our Commonwealth,” emphasizing shared purpose and unity. He said the Capitol Christmas tree reflects the “hope we share and the brighter future we’re building together,” offering Pennsylvanians a moment of connection in both celebratory and challenging times.
Scenes of classic Christmas artistry filled the Rotunda as the Central Dauphin High School Choir led holiday music and Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Pennsylvania Dairy Princesses greeted visitors. Reverend Anjel Scarborough of All Saints Episcopal Church in Hershey delivered an opening blessing.
First Lady Shapiro said the ceremony embodies the joy and togetherness of the holidays, adding that she and the Governor have cherished experiencing traditions with residents across Pennsylvania. Lieutenant Governor Davis praised the often-unseen work of state employees who prepare the Capitol each year, noting that their efforts “help thousands of Pennsylvanians experience the wonder and warmth of the season.”
The Department of General Services dedicated this year’s theme to Pennsylvania’s artisans and craftspeople, including the late Joseph Babich, a former DGS carpenter whose handmade decorations continue to be used in Capitol displays.
A second Douglas Fir from Crystal Spring Tree Farm is installed on the Capitol steps, where visitors can enjoy outdoor holiday views throughout the season.
The tree in the Capitol Rotunda will be lit daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the outdoor tree will remain illuminated from 5 p.m. to midnight through January 8, 2026.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.