Madison, Wis. – Governor Tony Evers unveiled the theme for the 2026 Wisconsin State Capitol Holiday Tree on Tuesday, declaring it will be “The Year of the Neighbor.” The announcement, made by the Evers administration, emphasizes the governor’s desire to spend his final year in office celebrating the neighbors who make Wisconsin a great place to call home.
Call for student‑made ornaments
In a letter to students and educators across the state, Gov. Evers wrote, “Over my nearly eight years as governor, I’ve had the immense privilege to travel across the state and meet Wisconsin’s neighbors in their homes, communities, schools, businesses, and more—and let me tell you, each Wisconsinite I meet makes me more and more proud to be governor of this wonderful state.” He added that the holiday tree will honor those neighbors and the spirit of community they embody.
To bring the theme to life, the governor is inviting students to submit handmade ornaments that represent the neighbors who improve their lives and illustrate what being a good neighbor means. Submissions should be mailed to Emily Gorman at the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Facilities and Transportation Services, 17 West Main Street, Suite 119, Madison, WI 53703, by Friday, Nov. 20.
Guidelines for participation
Organizers ask that ornaments be constructed from sturdy materials that can survive shipping and handling. Each piece should also include a ten‑inch loop of ribbon or string for hanging on the tree. Questions about ornament design can be directed to the Facilities Management Information Center at 608‑266‑1485.
Tree display and past recognition
The holiday tree will be displayed in the Capitol’s rotunda for the entire holiday season, offering residents and visitors a festive focal point in the heart of the state government. Last year’s tree earned a spot at No. 7 on USA Today’s “10 Best Public Holiday Lights Displays” list, underscoring Wisconsin’s reputation for holiday cheer.
Why the neighbor theme matters
By highlighting neighborliness, the administration aims to reinforce the values of family, faith, and individual liberty that underpin Wisconsin communities. The initiative encourages young Wisconsinites to reflect on the importance of caring for one another, a principle that aligns with the state’s long‑standing tradition of mutual support and civic responsibility.
Governor Evers’ invitation provides a tangible way for students to engage with state traditions while showcasing the creativity and generosity of Wisconsin’s next generation. The finished ornaments will join a growing collection that celebrates the everyday heroes who help make the Badger State a welcoming home for all.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
