The evergreen tree that will become the Wisconsin state Capitol Holiday Tree is ready to be cut down Nov. 17, 2025, in Oconto County. PC: Fox 11 Online
OCONTO COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The trees that will brighten the Wisconsin state Capitol and governor’s mansion this holiday season are coming from Oconto County.
The trees are set to be harvested Monday morning from Dave and Mary Vander Velden’s tree field near Gillett.
The tree going into the Capitol rotunda is a 30-foot-tall balsam fir, according to the Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association.
Gov. Tony Evers says this year’s Capitol Holiday Tree theme will be “The Learning Tree.” Students are invited to contribute hand-made ornaments honoring the state’s educators, child care providers, administrators, custodians, school bus drivers, counselors, librarians, school staff, tutors, mentors and after-school program teachers.
“To engage with this theme, I encourage students to think about what learning means to them, as well as all of the good people in their lives who help make sure they can learn, be their best selves, and have fun,” Evers said in a news release. “(First lady) Kathy and I are both really looking forward to seeing all of the amazing ornaments kids from across Wisconsin will be sending in to help decorate the tree in the Capitol this year to help celebrate learning and the people who help make it happen.”
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