Litchfield’s Turck’s Trees Provides Minnesota Capitol Christmas Tree

A 17-foot balsam fir from Turck’s Trees in Litchfield, Minnesota, has been selected as this year’s Capitol Christmas tree. The tree was delivered to the State Capitol in St. Paul earlier this week and is scheduled for decoration on Monday. This honor marks a significant achievement for Turck’s Trees, which was awarded the grand champion title at the Minnesota State Fair earlier this year.

The tree arrived on Tuesday and was set up in the rotunda by Capitol staff. It will be available for public viewing beyond Christmas, allowing residents and visitors to admire its beauty throughout the holiday season. The balsam fir is a native species to eastern and central Canada, as well as the northeastern United States. Recognized for its rich green needles, natural conical shape, and excellent needle retention, the balsam fir is also celebrated for being one of the most fragrant varieties of Christmas trees.

Turck’s Trees has a long-standing history, being part of the Turck family since 1875. The family began planting Christmas trees in 1981 and has been selling them for over 35 years. The farm spans approximately 100 acres dedicated to Christmas and landscape trees. Owners Joan and Steve Turck work alongside the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of their family to manage the business.

In 2024, Turck’s Trees achieved reserve grand champion status at the Minnesota State Fair and provided trees to the Governor’s Residence in St. Paul. This year, they were chosen for the Capitol tree from more than 120 competing entries submitted by members of the Minnesota Christmas Tree Association, highlighting their commitment to quality and excellence in tree farming.

This selection not only represents a significant milestone for the Turck family but also reinforces the importance of local traditions in Minnesota during the holiday season. As the Capitol Christmas tree stands tall in St. Paul, it serves as a symbol of community spirit and celebration.