UPDATE: A stunning 17-foot balsam fir from Turck’s Trees in Litchfield, Minnesota, has just arrived at the State Capitol, ready to be adorned for the 2025 Capitol Christmas Tree celebration. Delivered earlier this week, the tree will be officially decorated on Monday, marking a significant moment for the Turck family, who have been part of Minnesota’s Christmas tree tradition since 1875.
This year’s selection is particularly special as it is the first time Turck’s Trees has received this honor, following their grand champion win at the Minnesota State Fair earlier this year. The delivery took place on Tuesday, with Capitol staff efficiently setting up the tree in the rotunda, where it will remain on public display well into the holiday season.
The balsam fir, celebrated for its rich green needles and natural conical shape, is also known as the most fragrant of all Christmas tree varieties, making it a captivating centerpiece for the Capitol. According to the Turck’s Trees website, this species is native to much of eastern and central Canada as well as the northeastern United States.
The Turck family, led by Joan and Steve Turck, has dedicated themselves to the cultivation of Christmas trees since officially planting them in 1981, after over a century in the tree farming business. With around 100 acres of Christmas and landscape trees, the farm is now operated by the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Turck family.
In 2024, Turck’s Trees secured the reserve grand champion title at the Minnesota State Fair and supplied trees to the Governor’s Residence in St. Paul. This year, they triumphed over more than 120 entries from members of the Minnesota Christmas Tree Association, showcasing their quality and commitment to tradition.
As the Capitol prepares for the decoration on Monday, the anticipation builds not only for the Turck family but for the Minnesota community, eager to celebrate this cherished holiday tradition. Stay tuned for updates as the Capitol Christmas Tree event unfolds, bringing the festive spirit to St. Paul and beyond.
