Evers holds lighting ceremony for Capitol Holiday Tree. Here's how to go see it.

MADISON – The Capitol Holiday Tree that stands in the statehouse rotunda is now illuminated for the public to enjoy after Democratic Gov. Tony Evers held a lighting ceremony Friday afternoon.

Wisconsinites gathered to hear speeches from officials and music performed by Wauwatosa East High School's orchestra and University of Wisconsin-Madison's MadHatters acapella group.

The tree's theme commemorates the state's 175-year anniversary and includes ornaments honoring figures like Ada Deer and Vel Phillips, along with the "teachers, caregivers, librarians, community leaders, parents and grandparents that make Wisconsin, Evers said.

"It's always been the people of Wisconsin who make this state special," Evers said.

Here's what to know about the tree, the decorations that adorn it and how to go see it this season.

Where did the tree come from?

The 32-foot balsam fir was donated by Marge Van Heuklon of Rhinelander, after the growing tree began blocking her living room windows.

Nicknamed "Mr. Frank," the tree was planted by previous homeowners to honor their family member Frank Magnus, who served in World War II and ran a dairy farm. He was also a town clerk for nearly 50 years and sat on the county board for 20 years.

"Nearly 19 years after his death, he has one last opportunity to serve," his daughter, Debby Hansen, said at the ceremony. The grandchildren of both families helped Evers light the tree.

The tree's backstory is fitting for this year's theme: "Celebrating 175 years of Wisconsinites." Schoolchildren were asked to make ornaments that honor the state's famous residents or recognize people who have made a difference in their lives or communities.

How many lights are on the tree?

The tree is lit by 2,000 multicolored, energy-saving LED lights, according to a sign in the rotunda that thanks people and organizations who donated the tree skirt, stand and train that runs around the base.

Capitol staff spend days decorating the tree, including using scaffolding and long poles to place ornaments on tall branches. Balconies and railings around the Capitol are decked out with evergreen garlands and wreaths.

Why isn't it called a Christmas tree?

Evers reversed back to the "Capitol Holiday Tree" nomenclature when he took office in 2019, the name politicians started using in 1985 to avoid perceptions that they were endorsing religion.

Former Republican Gov. Scott Walker referred to it as a Christmas tree during his administration. Republicans in the state, including Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, continue to criticize Evers over the name of the tree.

The tree has been a source of controversy in recent years, with Republicans attempting to put up their own, smaller tree in the rotunda when Evers decided not to display one when the building was closed during the pandemic.

Where and when can I go see the tree?

The tree is expected to be on display through Sunday, Jan. 7.

The tree is located in the center of the state Capitol building in Madison. The Capitol's address is 2 E. Main St.

The Capitol is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Find more information on Capitol tours here.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The Capitol Holiday Tree is now lit. Here's how to go see it.