• Posted: December 23, 2025
• Chicago Christmas tree lighting electrical setup, IBEW Local 134 electricians Chicago, IBEW Local 134 holiday lighting projects, Powering Chicago tree lighting installation

The City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is one of the city’s most enduring holiday traditions, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to Millennium Park each year. Behind the lighting, power distribution, and safety that make this event possible are Powering Chicago’s member contractors, who employ highly trained IBEW Local 134 electricians. Their expertise ensures the tree is illuminated safely, efficiently, and reliably throughout the season.

The past three ceremonies highlight the technical skill, coordination, and craftsmanship that define the electrical workforce serving Chicago and Cook County year-round.

2025: McWilliams Electrical Company Powers a 68-Foot Norway Spruce

The 2025 ceremony showcased one of the tallest trees in recent history: a 68-foot Norway spruce donated by the Mason family of Glenview. Thousands gathered at Millennium Park on November 21 to watch the illumination and celebrate the official start of the holiday season.

Powering Chicago member contractor McWilliams Electric Company managed all electrical installation and power connections for the tree. Their team of IBEW Local 134 electricians:

• Installed and connected the complete lighting system
• Ensured safe, consistent illumination across the full height of the tree
• Coordinated with the City of Chicago and Millennium Park operations
• Followed all applicable Chicago and Cook County electrical codes
  

The tree was illuminated at approximately 6:25 p.m. and will remain fully powered into early January, serving as a bright seasonal landmark for residents and visitors throughout the region.

2024: Powering Chicago Presents the 111th Annual Ceremony

In 2024, Powering Chicago served as the presenting sponsor of the 111th City of Chicago Tree Lighting Ceremony. A 53-foot Colorado blue spruce, donated by the Holden-Shaddick family of Logan Square, became the centerpiece of the annual celebration.

Powering Chicago member Taylor Electric Company, supported by skilled IBEW Local 134 electricians, installed the lighting that powered the tree from November 22 through January 8, 2025. The installation followed all Chicago and Cook County electrical and safety standards, ensuring a dependable lighting system capable of operating throughout the winter season.

The event featured live performances, multiple viewing zones throughout Millennium Park, concessions, and a live CBS Chicago broadcast, delivering a seamless and festive experience for attendees.

2023: Eco Lighting Services and Technology Delivers a 110th Anniversary Showcase

In 2023, Powering Chicago member Eco Lighting Services and Technology completed the complex lighting installation for the 110th annual ceremony. Their team—powered by highly trained IBEW Local 134 electricians—installed:

• 30,000 feet of lights
• 60,000 LED bulbs
• A total equivalent of 5.68 miles of lighting

To achieve a consistent visual design, electricians used a custom weaving technique to prevent identical colors from being placed next to each other. Thousands of zip ties secured the installation to withstand winter wind conditions. The use of LED technology delivered a 70% reduction in energy usage compared to incandescent lighting, offering a model for energy-efficient municipal lighting.

Hundreds attended the ceremony, celebrating community connection and the start of the holiday season. Eco Lighting President Mindy Nowakowski shared her pride in seeing her team’s craftsmanship displayed during such a meaningful Chicago tradition. Powering Chicago also recognized 3M for donating essential supplies that supported the installation.

Supporting a Chicago Tradition Through Skilled Electrical Work

Over the years, the work completed by Powering Chicago’s member contractors demonstrates the high level of precision required to deliver safe, code-compliant, and visually striking public lighting displays. Each installation reflects:

• Strict adherence to electrical and safety standards
• Reliable performance in winter operating conditions
• Energy-efficient lighting solutions
• Attention to detail that supports major public events
  

As Chicago continues investing in public experiences and holiday programming, the craftsmanship and technical expertise of IBEW Local 134 electricians and Powering Chicago signatory contractors remain essential to ensuring these traditions continue safely and reliably. To explore Powering Chicago member contractors, visit our Find a Contractor tool.