PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – Governor Kristi Noem will host the 2021 Grand Lighting Ceremony for Christmas at the South Dakota Capitol in the Rotunda on Tuesday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m. CST. The public is invited to join Governor Kristi Noem, First Gentleman Bryon Noem, and Pierre Mayor Steve Harding as they welcome guests and light the Capitol trees.

This year’s Capitol Christmas display includes more than 80 trees decorated by volunteers from communities, schools, churches, nonprofit organizations, and state government offices. This year’s theme for Christmas at the Capitol is “Winter Wishes.”

The largest tree, a 25-foot Colorado Blue Spruce, is decorated by the South Dakota Christmas at the Capitol Committee in honor of their 40th Anniversary. It was donated by Austyn and Jessica Gackle of Pierre, SD.

At the ceremony, music will be provided by the TF Riggs Chamber Choir of Pierre.

Immediately after the ceremony, kids of all ages can pose for pictures with Santa Claus in front of the South Dakota Christmas tree.

The holiday display will be open to the public from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily starting on Nov. 24. The last day to view the display is Dec. 26.

You can follow the Christmas at the Capitol events on Facebook or visit the website at christmasatthecapitol.sd.gov/.