The public is invited to join a Holiday Food Drive featuring the Capitol Tree on December 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. Pacific Time on the West Lawn of the State Capitol. Following a tradition that began in 1983, the Capitol Tree is displayed outdoors and decorated with festive ornaments created by Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
For the third year in a row, 21 regional centers will add to the festive display with their own six-foot trees, bringing more holiday cheer for everyone to enjoy.
New this year, the Governor’s Office of Community Service and Engagement (GO-Serve) will host a holiday food drive benefiting the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services. Every donation – big or small – helps local families get the food they need. Most-needed items include peanut butter, canned tuna or chicken, beans, soups, stews, canned veggies, and canned fruit.
In addition to the food donation station and lighting of the Capitol Tree, there will be a holiday train for kids to enjoy as well as a cookie station – with music from a local disc jockey to help countdown to the lighting.
This year’s Capitol Tree Lighting Ceremony will be live streamed on the Governor’s Office YouTube and Facebook channels.