64-Foot Colorado Spruce Is Chicago Christmas Tree

CHICAGO (AP) — A family from the northern Chicago suburb of Prospect Heights is donating this year's official Chicago Christmas tree.

City officials say the Theiszman family's 64-foot Colorado spruce will be the focus of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 20 in Daley Plaza. The family will light the tree with Mayor Rahm Emanuel. The ceremony will include Santa Claus and the cast of the Goodman Theatre's "The Christmas Carol."

Trees were submitted to the city's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events over the summer and fall. The Theiszman tree was picked by Chicago officials after consultations with landscaping and tree professionals.

The tree will be cut down Thursday and delivered to downtown Chicago on Friday.

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