The State of Tennessee Launches a Contest to Find the Perfect Capitol Christmas Tree
In partnership with: Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Decking the halls of the Tennessee State Capitol building in Nashville is a true honor. Just ask Paul and Connie Nichols of Ashland City. The couple donated the Norway spruce tree that adorned the front of the building during the 2024 Christmas season.
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“I had often wondered how the Tennessee Capitol Christmas tree was chosen each year, but I had never looked into it,” Connie Nichols says. “I was surprised to come home from work one day and find a flyer on our door asking if we would consider nominating our tree. We were very honored.”
Tennessee Capitol Christmas Tree Competition
In the past, the Tennessee state arborist scouted for trees throughout the year, knocking on doors in search of the perfect one. But beginning in 2024, the Department of General Services launched a Christmas tree competition.
“We decided to open it up to the public and give Tennesseans an opportunity to submit their tree for consideration,” says Michelle Parks, executive director of communications for the Department of General Services. “Our Christmas Tree Committee evaluates submissions based on specific criteria, with Norway spruce being the preferred species. We seek specimens between 30 and 40 feet tall for the exterior Capitol tree with full, symmetrical branches.”
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The Capitol also features two interior trees, which are smaller at approximately 9 feet but must meet similar quality standards for their fullness and shape. The interior trees are sourced from local Tennessee tree farms, while the exterior tree comes from a Tennessee resident who generously donates from their private property.
“The Christmas Tree Committee reviews all submissions, and a final selection is made in consultation with the Governor’s Office to ensure the chosen tree meets the prestigious standards of the State Capitol display,” Parks says.
From Sapling to Star
Connie and Paul Nichols planted the Norway spruce that would one day decorate the Capitol in the corner of their front yard in 1994.
“I’m kind of sentimental about the tree,” Nichols says. “When I bought it for $1.50 at Home Depot in 1994, it was only 4 inches tall. It grew to more than 40 feet. It’s a beautiful tree.”
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While it was difficult to see the tree cut down, the Nicholses felt it was for a worthy cause.
“A lot of people encouraged us to donate it, agreeing it was an honor to be chosen,” Nichols says. “Eventually, the tree was going to be cut down anyway because of a highway expansion. We thought there was no better way to let it have its last hurrah than to serve as the Capitol Christmas tree. We let it go out with a bang.”
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
The family donating the Capitol’s exterior tree receives a special invitation to the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which traditionally takes place the Monday after Thanksgiving. They meet the governor and first lady for photographs and receive a certificate and Tennessee state flag from the Governor’s Office.
“The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a centerpiece of Christmas at the Capitol,” Parks says. “Each year brings its own special elements, from live musical performances and holiday storytelling to partnerships with local nonprofits. The highlight remains the magical moment when the governor and first lady illuminate the tree, officially beginning the holiday season in Nashville.”
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The majestic State Capitol Christmas tree sparkles with 8,000 energy-efficient LED lights, creating a brilliant holiday beacon visible across downtown Nashville. Tennesseans are invited to help decorate the tree by donating meaningful ornaments representing the state or a local community.
“In 2024 – the inaugural year of our public ornament program – we received 10 ornaments from Tennesseans,” Parks says. “We look forward to growing this tradition in the years to come.”
How to Submit
Do you have a majestic Norway spruce or other tree that would make a perfect State Capitol Christmas tree in 2025 or beyond? Snap and send a few photos of the tree to tn.tree@tn.gov. Trees must be between 30 and 40 feet tall to be considered.
Interested in donating an ornament that symbolizes Tennessee or your community? Include a brief story about the ornament’s significance and mail it to:
Tennessee Department of General Services
312 Rosa L. Parks Ave.
WRS Tennessee Tower, 22nd Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Attn: Christmas Tree Committee