Will County Gazette

The City of Joliet is inviting residents to nominate a Christmas tree to be displayed as the official holiday centerpiece in the new City Square downtown. Nominations will be accepted by email at roadways@joliet.gov from September 22 through October 24, 2025.

To qualify, nominated trees must be at least 30 feet tall, located within 50 miles of downtown Joliet, and must be either a Norway Spruce or Fir. Pine trees are not eligible due to concerns about sturdiness. Trees that do not meet these requirements will not be considered.

The city will remove the selected tree at no cost to the property owner. The family donating the chosen tree will receive recognition and an invitation to participate in Joliet’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28, 2025.

Mayor Terry D’Arcy said, “The lighting of Joliet’s Christmas tree is a treasured tradition that brings people together from across the city. We’re excited to select a tree that reflects our community spirit and pride, and we invite residents to be part of this celebration by nominating a tree of their own.”

Applicants must provide their name, address, phone number, email address, a brief description explaining why their tree should represent Joliet for the holidays—including any unique background or history—and at least two photographs (one close-up and one taken from a distance).

The selected tree will remain on display through January 11, 2026. Additional information about the contest can be found at www.joliet.gov/ChristmasTree or by contacting Joseph Nordman, Deputy Director of Operations-Public Works.

Joliet is located in Will and Kendall counties in Illinois, approximately 30 miles southwest of Chicago. It serves as the county seat of Will County and had a population of over 150,000 according to the 2020 census. More details about Joliet are available at https://www.joliet.gov.

Media inquiries can be directed to Rosemaria DiBenedetto, Media Engagement and Communications Director.