Litchfield’s Turck’s Trees Supplies the 2025 Capitol Christmas Tree

A 17-foot balsam fir from Turck’s Trees in Litchfield, Minnesota, has been selected as the 2025 Capitol Christmas Tree. The tree was delivered to the State Capitol earlier this week, where it is set to be decorated on Monday. This marks a significant achievement for Turck’s Trees, which secured this honor by winning the grand champion title at the Minnesota State Fair earlier this year.

According to a news release from Turck’s Trees, this is a proud moment for the farm, as it is the first time they have participated in this long-standing Minnesota tradition. The balsam fir arrived in St. Paul on Tuesday and was installed in the Capitol rotunda by state staff.

Tree Characteristics and History

The chosen balsam fir is native to eastern and central Canada and the northeastern United States. Renowned for its rich green needles and natural conical shape, the tree is also praised for its excellent needle retention after being cut. Turck’s Trees highlights that the balsam fir is particularly notable for being the most fragrant of all Christmas tree varieties.

Turck’s Trees has a rich history, having been in the Turck family since 1875. The family began cultivating 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, operated by Joan and Steve Turck, along with their fourth, fifth, and sixth generations.

In 2024, Turck’s Trees was awarded the reserve grand champion title at the Minnesota State Fair and provided trees to the Governor’s Residence in St. Paul. This year, they were selected from over 120 entries from members of the Minnesota Christmas Tree Association, showcasing the farm’s quality and reputation.

The Capitol Christmas Tree will remain on display for public viewing even after the holiday season, inviting visitors to enjoy its beauty and the spirit it represents.