(Millennium Park / Facebook)
If ever there were a year for the Grinch to steal Christmas, 2020 would be it. But the City of Chicago is moving forward with holiday plans, kicking off the search for the city’s official Christmas tree.
If you’ve got a beauty you’d be willing to part with for the greater good, here’s what the city’s looking for.
Height matters — the tree must be at least 45 feet tall — and so does proximity to Chicago. Trees located within 15 miles of the city will be given preference, but must be less than 50 miles from the Loop.
Pines need not apply. They’re not sturdy enough for the job, according to the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Norway spruce and fir trees — think fraser, balsam or noble — are ideal candidates. Chicago’s 2019 Christmas tree was a 55-foot blue spruce from Elgin.
To nominate a tree, email the following information to DCASE: owner’s name, address, phone and email; a brief description of what makes the tree so special; and at least two photos of the tree, including one from a distance and a close-up. Submissions are due by Friday, Oct. 23.
The chosen tree will light up Millennium Park near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street.
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
