Michigan Has an Official Christmas Tree for 2023
It’s not even Halloween yet, but Christmas is on the way. I know, it might be a bit early, but that’s okay. If you can’t beat them, join them. The…
Photo by Anne Erickson
Photo by Anne EricksonIt's not even Halloween yet, but Christmas is on the way. I know, it might be a bit early, but that's okay. If you can't beat them, join them. The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB) has picked the official 2023 state Christmas tree. The massive tree, a 60-foot spruce, will be harvested from Onaway in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. This should make a beautiful official Christmas tree for the Mitten. Onaway resident Vic Ruppert and his family have actually donated the tree to the State to honor his late wife, Shirley Ruppert. The spruce will be in downtown Lansing on Saturday, Oct. 28, so well before the holidays.
According to the DTMB, "The tree will be harvested Thursday, Oct. 26, and transported to the Capitol with help from the Michigan Association of Timbermen, the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, and DTMB's Christmas tree crew. Once at the Capitol, local Boy Scout troops will continue the tradition of untying the tree." Also, the HI-Ball Company of Lansing will offer a crane and crew to hoist the spruce, and it will stand near the intersection of Capitol and East Michigan avenues.
The official tree lighting ceremony will take place on Friday, Nov. 17, at the 39th Annual Silver Bells in the City celebration. The event kicks off at 7:30 p.m. and offers "more than 70 entries decked out with thousands of lights, high school marching bands, horse drawn carriages, and the arrival of Santa Claus; lighting of the state tree; community sing; and drone holiday light show," according to a release. Finally, visitors will get to watch a full fireworks display over the Capitol.
For more information on Silver Bells in the City and the events lined up for that evening, visit SilverBellsintheCity.org. Check out a photo of the official Christmas tree for Michigan in all of its glory here.
It's never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don't have to travel during the holidays, just don't, because it's a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.?
I've researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.
I'm a Michigan girl, so I'm very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I'm going to escape, even if it's just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it's fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it's not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What's your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.
Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
5. Savannah, Georgia
If you're looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It's pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it's less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it's still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it's won't be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.
2. Traverse City, Michigan
I know what you're thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it's worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it's big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It's also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.
1. Key West, Florida
If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It's considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?
