City of Joliet Seeks Showstopping Christmas Tree for City Square

JOLIET, Ill. — The City of Joliet is seeking a Christmas tree to serve as the official holiday centerpiece in City Square this holiday season. Nominations will be accepted via email at forestry@joliet.gov beginning October 1 through October 31. 

The selected tree will be removed at no cost to the property owner. The donating family will also be recognized and invited to participate in Joliet’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 27, 2026. 

To qualify, trees must meet the following requirements: 

• At least 30 feet tall
• Located within 50 miles of downtown Joliet
• Must be a Norway Spruce or Fir (pine trees are not eligible due to lack of sturdiness) 

Trees that do not meet these requirements will not be considered. 

“For the second year, Joliet’s Christmas tree will stand proudly in City Square, continuing a new tradition in the heart of our downtown and becoming a symbol of the holiday season and the memories we create together as a community,” said Mayor Terry D’Arcy. “There is something special about a tree from our region becoming the centerpiece of a celebration enjoyed by thousands in downtown Joliet.” 

When submitting a tree for consideration, applicants must include: 

• Owner’s name, address, phone number, and email address 

• A brief description of why the tree should be Joliet’s official Christmas tree, including any unique background or history 

• At least two photographs of the tree (one close-up and one taken from a distance) 

The chosen tree will be illuminated during the Tree Lighting Ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 27 and remain on display through January 10, 2027. 

For more information about the contest, please visit our website at www.joliet.gov/ChristmasTree or contact Piotr Zubek, City Arborist, at 815-724-4046.