Every December, the Texas House continues its beloved holiday tradition of decorating a Christmas tree on the chamber floor, creating a festive atmosphere that has become a highlight at the Capitol. What sets this display apart is the “district ornament project,” which invites each of the 150 House members to contribute a unique ornament representing their district.
This tradition was initiated by Julie Straus, wife of former Speaker Joe Straus, and has since become a cherished part of the holiday season at the Capitol.
According to The Texan, in 2016, Straus explained the origin of the idea, sharing how they bought hundreds of clear glass ornaments and encouraged legislators to depict something special about their district or community Christmas traditions. The results, she said, surpassed their expectations.
Each year, a book is published featuring the ornaments, showcasing the creativity and diversity of the state’s districts. The ornament book for 2024 is now available for purchase.
The 23-foot Virginia pine tree made its grand arrival at the Texas State Capitol, having traveled a lengthy four and a half hours from Elves Christmas Tree Farm in Denison, according to a news release from the Texas House of Representatives. They have grown taller and fuller over the years, becoming a larger-than-life symbol of the season.
The tradition of decorating a holiday tree in the Senate began in 2015 under Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, offering a bit of competition to the House’s display. As always, Texas lawmakers eagerly await the unveiling of the Capitol’s towering trees, each year wondering just how much taller the next one will be.
This holiday custom continues to bring joy to both legislators and visitors alike, showcasing the spirit of Texas during the most wonderful time of the year.
