The holiday season is in full swing, and Detroit’s Campus Martius Park is glowing with festive cheer. This year’s tree, a stunning 66-foot Norway spruce from Manton, Michigan, is illuminated with 25,000 LED lights!
To get you in the holiday spirit, we’d like to share some fun facts.
About the City’s Tree:
– This year’s Norway spruce hails from Manton, a quaint town situated north of Cadillac. Michigan ranks as one of the top states for Christmas tree production, harvesting nearly 1.8 million trees in 2022 alone.
– The Campus Martius tree features 25,000 LED lights, transforming it into a brilliant holiday landmark visible for blocks.
– The annual tree lighting ceremony has been a beloved Detroit tradition for more than 20 years, drawing crowds from across the state and beyond.
– Michigan is the third-largest producer of Christmas trees in the United States, following North Carolina and Oregon, contributing about $40 million annually to the state’s economy.
Did You Know…?
– The tradition of the modern Christmas tree is thought to have started in Germany during the 16th century, when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Today, Christmas trees are a global holiday icon.
– In Michigan, popular Christmas tree varieties include Fraser fir, Scotch pine, Colorado blue spruce, Douglas fir, Concolor fir, and Canaan fir—all perfectly suited to the state’s climate.
– Balsam firs are prized for their strong, piney scent, making them one of the most fragrant Christmas tree options. However, they need regular watering to remain fresh throughout the season.
– Each year, around 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold across the U.S., supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable forestry practices.
– In certain traditions, evergreen trees are thought to ward off evil spirits and illnesses, symbolizing protection during the darkest time of the year.
– The earliest recorded use of a decorated Christmas tree dates back to 1510 in Riga, Latvia.
– The tallest cut Christmas tree ever displayed was a towering 221-foot Douglas fir in Seattle, Washington, in 1950.
– While Detroit’s Campus Martius tree is a Midwest highlight, New York City’s Rockefeller Center tree draws millions of visitors annually, earning its reputation as the most iconic Christmas tree in the U.S.
Michigan’s Role in the Christmas Tree Industry
With its rich soil and cool climate, Michigan is a prime location for growing Christmas trees. The state boasts over 560 Christmas tree farms spread across 37,000 acres, playing a vital role in spreading holiday joy.
Growing a tree to full size typically takes 7-10 years, showcasing the hard work and dedication of Michigan’s tree farmers.
Beyond its economic impact, Michigan’s Christmas tree industry offers environmental benefits. Real trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and can be recycled into mulch after the holidays.
Wrapping Up the Holiday Spirit
Detroit’s Christmas tree serves as a beacon of community, tradition, and holiday joy.
Whether you’re enjoying the twinkling lights at Campus Martius or exploring Michigan’s contributions to the Christmas tree industry, there are countless ways to embrace the holiday spirit. So grab a warm cup of cocoa, wander through the city’s sparkling streets, and soak in the magic of the season – Detroit style.
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