Chicago’s official Christmas tree was originally a fixture on the Chicago Cultural Mile. The historic tree was first lit for the Christmas holidays in 1913 by the Mayor of Chicago, at the time, Carter Harrison.

The tree was lit only a couple of blocks from where it will return to. The tree was in different locations in Chicago for about 52 years, according to J.R. Davis, Chairman and President of the Cultural Mile Association. The tree was in Daley Plaza for about 48 years.

 

 Christmas Tree

Chicago’s official Christmas Tree on the Chicago Cultural Mile Chicago Cultural Mile Association

The City’s tree will be lit on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at 5:30 pm. During the tree lighting ceremony, members of the Chicago Cultural Mile Association will pass out 2000 holiday scarves to the crowd.

The non-profit Cultural Mile Association organizes efforts to improve the appearance of the Cultural Mile, encourage tourism to the area, and create networking opportunities.