• Posted: November 2, 2021
• better communities, City of Chicago Christmas Tree, Electrical Contractors' Association of Chicago and Cook County, IBEW Local 134, M.T. Kelley Electric

Chicago’s “official” Christmas tree, the 108th Annual City of Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park, will shine brightly near the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Washington St. from November 19 through January 9. All-virtual in 2020, this year’s Tree Lighting Ceremony presented by Powering Chicago with leadership support from the Millennium Park Foundation will be in-person on Friday, November 19 starting at 6pm (with the actual lighting at approximately 6:30pm). The 2021 event has been expanded and reimagined to provide more space and opportunities for guests to participate — including multiple viewing locations with screens and concessions across the Park and a main stage on the Great Lawn with the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony followed by fireworks and a special concert from 6:35–7:45pm headlined by singer-songwriter Brian McKnight. DCASE is selecting this year’s Tree from previous nominations; those details will be announced in the coming weeks. Face masks are strongly encouraged for all Tree Lighting Ceremony guests.

“Powering Chicago is thrilled to continue its tradition of lighting the official City of Chicago Christmas Tree and this year’s 108th annual lighting is sure to put a smile on the face of all Chicagoans who see it,” said Elbert Walters III, Executive Director, Powering Chicago. “Following a year where many were unable to see the Tree, we look forward to welcoming Chicagoans back for an in-person viewing. I want to thank Electrical Contractors’ Association member M.T. Kelley Electric and members of IBEW Local 134, who are responsible for the lighting decorations of this year’s Tree. On behalf of Powering Chicago, I’d like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.”

Tree Lighting Ceremony Schedule (subject to change):

• 5:30–6pm: Preshow with DJ Selah Say
• 6pm: Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring Mariachi Herencia de Mexico, the cast of Chicago Opera Theater performing an excerpt from “Becoming Santa Claus;” a youth dance ensemble from the Kenwood School of Ballet; and special guests Dreezy Claus and Sister Claus
• 6:30pm: Fireworks
• 6:35–7:45pm: Concert featuring DJ Selah Say; Cirque du Soleil performing an excerpt of ‘Twas the Night Before…;” Chicago Soul Spectacular performing a high-energy Soul Christmas medley; and singer-songwriter Brian McKnight