MO Gov. Mike Parson declares December as Christmas Tree Month

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KBSI) – On December 6, Missouri Governor Mike Parson hosted a ceremony proclaiming December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri. The proclamation was presented to winners of the Missouri Christmas Tree Association’s annual wreath and tree contests.

Pea Ridge Forest in Hermann won the Christmas tree contest and provided an 8-foot tree to the Missouri State Capitol. The Canaan fir tree has been growing at Pea Ridge Forest for eight years, according to Missouri Governor’s office.

Pea Ridge Forrest is a family business with three generations working on the farm and offers “choose and cut” Christmas trees. Additionally, they offer festive activities such as a gift shop, hay rides and complimentary hot chocolate.

The 2023 winning wreath comes from Meert Tree Farm in Festus, according to Missouri Governor’s Office. The family business offers cut-your-own Christmas trees, Christmas shop and children’s train rides.

Students from Happy Hearts Child Development Center, the Special Learning Center and Special Olympics Missouri joined Governor Parson to light this year’s Capitol Christmas tree.