A group of schoolchildren on a tour at the Kansas Statehouse got a first look at the annual Christmas tree lit inside the rotunda on Dec. 3.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly lit the tree earlier in the day.

It was her seventh Christmas tree lighting since becoming governor. Troy Spain decorated the tree, with the theme being the same as the Kansas State motto: Ad Astra Per Aspera.

Spain said he placed the stars around the tree to simulate movement as it reached higher.

The tree will remain in the Capitol for the rest of the year.

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