Christmas is on the way, and the annual Silver Bells in the City celebration is set to take place in downtown Lansing. Each year, the event debuts the Michigan State Capitol Christmas treen.

Last month, the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) hand-picked the official 2023 state Christmas tree. The massive tree, a 60-foot spruce, came from Onaway in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. According to the DTMB, Onaway resident Vic Ruppert and his family donated the tree to the State to honor his late wife, Shirley Ruppert. The spruce is already in downtown Lansing and just waiting to get decorated with glimmering lights.

The 39th Annual Silver Bells in the City is set for Friday, Nov. 17, where the official tree lighting ceremony will take place. The festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. and include over 70 entries adorned with thousands of lights, high school marching bands, horse drawn carriages and even a visit from Santa Claus. The event also features the lighting of the state tree, community sing and drone holiday light show. To top it off, a spectacular fireworks display over the Capitol will light up the night sky.

“The sky will be aglow as 200 drones perform a Firefly Drone Light Show while synchronizing to music after Grace West’s performance,” organizers for the event say in a statement. “A stunning firework display over the Capitol marks the evening’s grand finale.”

Also, at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, the Silver Bells 5K will take place. Organizers say to “enjoy a chip-timed 5K race to celebrate Silver Bells in the City. Participants have the choice to run/walk the 5K marked course in downtown Lansing. All finishers receive medals, a long-sleeve tee, and commemorative bib.” For information, head to Runsignup.com/silverbells.

Silver Bells in the City, a cherished Lansing tradition, has captured the hearts of countless families across generations. Drawing a crowd of over 45,000 individuals to the capital city every year, this beloved event is held annually on the Friday preceding Thanksgiving in Lansing, Michigan.

Silver Bells in the City is brought to you by the Lansing Board of Water and Light and the City of Lansing. The event is organized by a dedicated Coordinating Committee under the direction of the Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority. Thanks to the hard work of many passionate volunteers and the support of generous sponsors, as well as the State of Michigan and City of Lansing, Silver Bells in the City remains free for all to enjoy. For more details on this event and other activities planned for the evening, visit SilverBellsintheCity.org.

By the way, did you know that two Michigan Christmas towns have been named among the best in America? Here’s the scoop on all things Christmas.