Lincoln, Neb. – The Nebraska State Capitol will be adorned with a large, fully‑decorated evergreen tree for the holiday season, and First Lady Suzanne Pillen is asking residents to help. In partnership with the Capitol Commission, Pillen announced a call for donations of healthy, 20‑ to 25‑foot trees that can be displayed in the building’s main hall.
How the tree donation works
According to Pillen, most of the trees used in past years have come from individual property owners who are willing to part with a mature, well‑shaped evergreen. The tree must be in good condition, with most of its branches intact, so it can be safely moved, trimmed and decorated for public viewing.
“It’s an amazing feat to get them into the building and prepared for display,” Pillen said. “It is an absolute treat for visitors to come and see the tree when it is fully decorated, and it is an honor to acknowledge this extraordinary gift to the Capitol every year.”
Why the tradition matters
The holiday tree has become a beloved part of the Capitol’s seasonal programming, drawing families, tourists and state employees to share in a festive atmosphere. The display is typically accompanied by musical performances, choral groups and other holiday‑related events that celebrate the state’s cultural heritage.
By inviting Nebraskans to contribute a tree, the First Lady hopes to reinforce a sense of community involvement and stewardship of public spaces. The donation process is straightforward: owners who have a suitable tree can contact the Capitol Commission to arrange pickup and delivery.
What’s next
Once the trees are collected, a team of Capitol staff and volunteers will handle cleaning, trimming and lighting. The finished tree will be positioned in the Capitol’s central atrium, where it will remain on display throughout the holiday season, typically through early January.
Residents interested in donating a tree are encouraged to reach out promptly, as the window for collection closes before the official holiday lighting ceremony. Details on how to submit a donation, including contact information for the Capitol Commission, can be found on the official Nebraska State Capitol website.
This invitation reflects a broader effort by state leaders to engage citizens in public traditions that highlight family values, community pride and the shared joy of the holiday season.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
