The official Chicago Christmas tree was lit Friday evening as the holiday season unofficially begins.
Chicago's Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place Friday, marking the unofficial start to the holiday season as seasonal events kick off throughout the city.
Here's what to know about this year's tree:
How long will the Chicago Christmas tree stay up?
The tree will remain lit through Jan. 8, according to the city's website.
What kind of tree is it and where is it from?
The tree is a 53-foot Colorado Blue Spruce donated by the Hodlen-Shaddick family, of Logan Square.
What else is happening around the tree lighting?
Friday also marks the opening of Christkindlmarket, Chicago's iconic, German-style Christmas market for 2024.
The popular Christmas market will officially open for the season Friday, with one location in the city -- Daley Plaza -- and another in the suburbs, at RiverEdge park in Aurora.
Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter.
