It’s December, which means that the North Dakota State Capitol is adorned with a Christmas tree shape in its windows. Whether it’s the new year, the 4th of July, or Christmas, the windows of the capitol have become known for being the largest decoration in the city.

I got to wander the halls of the capitol once with the fella who is in charge of making sure that the right windows get changed over (using colored or blank window shades). He has a map that goes floor by floor, a diagram of how things need to be done from the inside to look just right from the outside.

The star on top was airlifted by my friend’s dad in a National Guard helicopter – a Huey, if I recall – many, many years ago. It may be older than I am. If I recall, it has a twin on the back side of the building.

Christmas in central North Dakota wouldn’t be the same without this 18-story (plus the star) display every year!