(WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey stopped by the Alabama State Capitol on Thursday to thank Alabama Department of Transportation workers as they raised and decorated the official state Christmas tree ahead of Friday evening’s lighting ceremony.
Each year, ALDOT crews handle one of the state’s most visible holiday traditions: positioning the towering evergreen on the Capitol steps, securing its trunk, and covering it in thousands of lights and ornaments.
“I’m liking what I’m seeing — and it’s all thanks to the hardworking ALDOT crews who bring this Christmas tradition to life,” Ivey said. “Their dedication helps set the tone for a joyful season at the State Capitol.”
The 38-foot Eastern Red Cedar, donated by the Allen family of Fitzpatrick, arrived earlier this week under blue-light escort. Crews delivered the tree Monday and spent the week locking, leveling, trimming and preparing it for decoration.
Workers are stringing more than 40,000 white lights, along with 67 county stars and ornaments provided by the Garden Club of Alabama. This year’s theme is “Every Light a Prayer for Peace.”
The Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5, at 5:30 p.m., with pre-program music by the 151st Army National Guard Band beginning at 5 p.m. The program will include remarks from Ivey, Rev. John O. Blount of Woodland Methodist Church, and Lt. Gen. Daniel Tulley, commander and president of Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base. Alabama native and American Idol finalist Walker Burroughs is slated to perform.
“As we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the blessings around us,” Ivey said. “I look forward to celebrating with folks from all across Alabama on Friday evening.”
The Governor’s Mansion will also host free Holiday Candlelight Tours on Dec. 15, 18 and 22 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
