UPDATE: A stunning 17-foot balsam fir from Turck’s Trees in Litchfield, Minnesota, has just arrived at the State Capitol, ready to be transformed into this year’s Capitol Christmas tree. The tree was delivered earlier this week and will be decorated on Monday, December 1, 2025, marking a significant moment for the family-owned farm.
This year’s selection is particularly special, as Turck’s Trees won the grand champion title at the Minnesota State Fair, leading to its nomination for this prestigious honor. “It is a long-standing Minnesota tradition, but the first time for Turck’s Trees,” expressed the proud owners in a recent news release.
The balsam fir was brought to St. Paul on Tuesday and has been set up in the Capitol rotunda by staff, making it accessible for public viewing throughout the holiday season. Known for its rich green needles and natural conical shape, this fir is celebrated as the most fragrant of all Christmas tree varieties, as stated on the Turck’s Trees website.
With a legacy dating back to 1875, Turck’s Trees has been a family-run business for generations. The Turck family began planting Christmas trees in 1981 and has been selling them for over 35 years. Currently, the farm spans approximately 100 acres dedicated to Christmas and landscape trees, showcasing the hard work of the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Turck family.
In a competitive selection process, Turck’s Trees triumphed over more than 120 entries from members of the Minnesota Christmas Tree Association. In 2024, the farm also earned the reserve grand champion title and provided trees for the Governor’s Residence in St. Paul.
As excitement builds for the upcoming decorations, the community looks forward to celebrating this traditional gift that symbolizes holiday cheer and family heritage. With the Capitol Christmas tree accessible for all to admire, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to visit and share in the festive spirit.
Stay tuned for more updates as the decoration event approaches, and experience the beauty of this special tree that represents Minnesota’s rich holiday traditions.
