Tennessee seeks Christmas tree and symbolic ornaments for the State Capitol

It's something of a “Christmas in July” in the state of Tennessee, as the Tennessee Department of General Services and the Governor's Office are calling on Tennesseans to help find the perfect Christmas tree for the State Capitol and to contribute Christmas ornaments for decoration.

“Every year, Maria and I look forward to continuing the Tennessee tradition of generosity throughout the Christmas season,” said Governor Bill Lee.

“As we now begin our search for a Christmas tree, I invite the people of Tennessee to join us in finding an evergreen tree that embodies the spirit, unity and pride of Tennessee as we prepare our hearts to receive the ultimate gift: the birth of Christ.”

The state is seeking a spruce (or similar) tree between 30 and 40 feet tall to serve as the Capitol Christmas tree this year. Residents who would like to suggest a tree should send photos of the tree, along with their contact information and the tree's location, to [email protected].

In addition to the tree hunt, the state invites Tennesseans to donate ornaments symbolic of Tennessee or their local community to decorate the Capitol Christmas tree.

Those interested in donating an ornament should provide the following information along with the ornament:

• Individual or group name

• Postal address

• E-mail address

• A brief description of the ornament and its meaning

Tennessee residents can mail their ornaments and this information to: Christmas in July, TN Tower, Davidson Room, 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave., 2^and Floor, Nashville, TN 37243

Although not all of the jewelry may be used this year, the state saves donations for possible use in subsequent years.

The selected tree will be lit by Governor Lee during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony as part of the Capitol's Christmas celebration on Monday, December 2, after Thanksgiving.

This initiative offers Tennessee residents a unique opportunity to participate in a beloved holiday tradition and show their pride in the state.