Gov. Pillen & First Lady Suzanne to Light Capitol Tree on December 6

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen and First Lady Suzanne will host the 77th annual lighting of the State Christmas Tree in the Capitol Rotunda on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6:00 p.m. Attendees to this year’s event will be required to present a ticket for entry. 

Hosted by award-winning broadcaster Charlie Brogan, the program will include music by the Sharpshooters Woodwind group from the Nebraska National Guard 43rd Army Band and a variety of choral and musical performances. Gov. Pillen will deliver a holiday message prior to the lighting. This year’s Christmas tree is a spruce donated by Pat and Ana Lostaglia of Ashland. It is scheduled to arrive at the State Capitol early next week. Workers will then adorn the tree with lights and decorations in preparation for the event on Dec. 6. 

This year, the tree lighting ceremony will be a ticketed event. Tickets will be issued through the offices of each of the 49 state senators. Anyone wishing to attend should reach out to the senator representing their district for information. 

Throughout the holiday season, visitors are welcome to the State Capitol. Free guided tours are offered hourly Monday – Friday at the following times: 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 1:00 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00.  On Saturdays, tours begin at 10 a.m. and on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. The State Capitol will be closed on Christmas Day (Dec. 25) and again on New Year’s Day (Jan. 1).

Please call the Tour Office at (402) 471-0448 for more information about visiting the Capitol.