Governor Ivey lights Alabama Capitol Christmas tree Friday

Governor Kay Ivey on Friday will light the Capitol Christmas tree. The theme of this year’s ceremony is “Every Light a Prayer for Peace.”

The official state Christmas tree is a 38-foot-tall, 24-foot-wide Eastern Red Cedar from Bullock County. Throughout the week, the tree has been decorated with approximately 40,000 lights and an assortment of ornaments. To conclude the ceremony, the governor will officially flip the switch to illuminate the tree.

Governor Ivey will also be joined by Reverend John Blount of Woodland Methodist Church in Pike Road, Garden Clubs of Alabama Vice President Karen Merrill and Air University President and Commander Lt. Gen. Daniel Tulley. Other special guests include 2019 American Idol finalist and Vestavia Hills native Walker Burroughs and the 151st Army National Guard Band.

“A special guest from the North Pole, wearing a red suit, is also anticipated,” Ivey’s release shared.

The Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the 2nd floor rotunda of the State Capitol building Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., with prelude music by the 151st Army National Guard Band beginning at 5 p.m.

The Alabama State Capitol (2nd Floor Rotunda) is located at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Ala.