Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Given Outdoor Post on Smith Hill

PROVIDENCE, RI — After a second effort, the Statehouse Christmas Tree has been installed in the rotunda in advance of the lighting on Dec. 1, according to David Ortiz, spokesman in the governor's office.

The tree is actually the second tree the Statehouse tried out Tuesday. The first tree, which came up the same morning from West Greenwich, looked too small for the rotunda, so the decision was made to go with a bigger tree and move the smaller tree outdoors to the Statehouse steps.

So, the Statehouse, it turns out, will have two Christmas trees for 2016, he explained.

"We’ve all had a Christmas or two when we’ve come home with the Christmas tree and realized it’s too big or small for the living room," he said. This situation was similar.

"The Christmas tree on the Statehouse steps is a Fraser fir about 14 feet tall," he said. "The Christmas tree in the rotunda is a balsam fir about 20 feet tall."

But as planned, Gov. Gina Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit will host a Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration," Ortiz said, at the Statehouse on Thursday, Dec. 1.

"The event is open to all Rhode Islanders and their families and will feature performances from the Governor's Own 88th Army Band, among others," Ortiz said. "There will be an opportunity to take photos with Santa Claus. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras, and if possible to bring an unwrapped toy to help 'Fill a Cruiser' with the State Police to benefit local children in need."