The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes one of the most cherished traditions in the nation’s capital—the lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol will shine brightly as the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is illuminated in a special ceremony beginning at 5 p.m.
Whether you attend the lighting ceremony or admire the tree throughout the season, this event is a reminder of the values that bring us together—peace, hope, and community. Bring your loved ones, snap some photos, and share in the joy of this beloved tradition.
For more details about the tree and its journey from Alaska to Washington, D.C., follow along on our social media channels.
“The People’s Tree” will journey from Alaska to Washington, D.C., in a Kenworth T680
WASHINGTON, D.C., (October 15, 2024)—Known for its long history of reliable freight transportation from Alaska to the continental U.S., Lynden has been selected to transport the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. The journey will begin in the Tongass National Forest, travel across the United States, making stops to connect and share the experience with communities and arrive at the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building in November.
Lynden began as a two-horse operation in 1906—then called Lynden Transfer—with Ed Austin transporting freight between Lynden and Bellingham, Washington. In 1954, Lynden opened services to Alaska by way of the Alcan Highway, delivering fresh food and supplies to Alaskans. Today, Lynden is a multi-modal provider offering air, marine, trucking, and logistics services.
Alaska is Lynden’s home and primary market, making it an ideal partner to ensure quality transportation of “The People’s Tree” to Washington, D.C.
“Lynden is an Alaska-based company, and our roots run as deep as the Christmas tree that will be harvested in the Tongass National Forest. We are proud that we are again being entrusted with the delivery of the tree and supporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour with our legendary drivers, John Schank and Fred Austin, both from our Fairbanks Service Center,” says Lynden Transport President Paul Grimaldi. “John and Fred are a dynamic duo of driving experience, leadership, and positive energy which will make the cross-country trip memorable.”
Fred Austin and John Schank share the honor of driving the Kenworth T680 tractor and Hale Trailer carrying the tree. Their stellar histories and performances with Lynden made them perfect candidates for the task. They both began working for Lynden in 1975 and have earned numerous prestigious honors and designations in the driving industry for their outstanding professionalism and skills. Collectively, they have driven over 10 million accident-free miles for Lynden in Alaska.
The truck pulling this year’s tree is a Kenworth T680, equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. The Kenworth T680 features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents and includes the latest in driver amenities. Both the driver and passenger seats are GT703 leather seats that are fully heated and cooled. The 76-inch sleeper includes space for a microwave and TV, a factory-installed fridge, and a rotating work table. The T680 also includes the latest in driver assistance systems, including Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering.
“It was my honor to carry the tree across the country in 2015, and I’m grateful to get another opportunity in 2024,” Schank says. “I stopped along the way for community events and met a lot of kids who thought I was Santa taking the Christmas tree to the U.S. Capitol. I’ll never forget it. I can’t wait to start the journey in early November to deliver another beautiful tree from my home state of Alaska.”
This will be Austin’s first experience supporting the initiative. Known as the “Icon of the Alcan,” he inspires Lynden employees and customers. “I’m excited to be a part of this important project and look forward to meeting new friends along the way,” Austin says.
About Lynden Lynden companies provide transportation and logistics solutions in Alaska, Canada, the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii and around the world. Extensive multi-modal capabilities allow customers to optimize time and expense by shipping via air, land or sea, or in any combination. For more than a century, Lynden has been helping customers get the job done. To learn more, visit www.lynden.com.
About the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative is a more than 50-year tradition in which one of our 154 national forests provides a tree for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The project is made possible with support from partners, including The Society of American Foresters, cash and in-kind contributions from large and small companies, and volunteers locally and across America. For a list of 2024 sponsors and to join in the Christmas spirit, please visit www.uscapitolchristmastree.com and @uscapitolchristmastree on Facebook and Instagram.
JUNEAU, Alaska – Oct. 8, 2024 – The Tongass and Chugach National Forests, nonprofit partner Society of American Foresters and presenting sponsor 84 Lumber, are excited to announce the eleven locations of the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Whistlestop Tour, starting in Alaska’s “First City,” Ketchikan.
The tree’s 4,000-mile journey from Wrangell, Alaska, to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building will kick off on Oct. 30. Over three weeks, the tour will travel to the “Lower 48” by sea and then by truck from the Pacific coast of the United States all the way to the eastern seaboard.
At each stop along the way, people will have the opportunity to sign the side of the uniquely Alaskan trailer with markers, purchase U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree souvenirs from Alaska Geographic, get free stickers and pins, and learn about Alaska’s national forests and the 54-year tradition of the USDA Forest Service providing the “Peoples Tree.”
The tour’s eleven Whistlestops before the tree is delivered to Washington, D.C. are:
The tree’s journey is possible with the generous support of presenting sponsor 84 Lumber along with Kenworth Truck Company, Lynden Transport, Hale Truck and Trailer, SEALONCE, Alaska Airlines, Alaska Geographic, KTUU, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Ironwood Forestry, Truckload Carriers Association, TreeSwift, T3, LexisNexis VitalChek Network, Inc., Verizon Frontline and more.
About the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative is a 54-year tradition in which one of America’s 154 national forests provides a tree for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The project is made possible with support from partners including nonprofit Society of American Foresters and Alaska Geographic, cash and in-kind contributions from small businesses and large corporations, as well as volunteers throughout Alaska and across the United States.
We invite everyone to learn more and follow the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree journey!
KETCHIKAN, Alaska – Oct. 4, 2024 – The harvest celebration for the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tour will happen this month in Wrangell, followed by the first Whistlestop Tour event in Ketchikan. These are the only two Alaskan events before the “Peoples Tree” begins its 4000-mile journey to Washington, D.C.
The Capitol Christmas Tree celebration in Wrangell begins Oct. 26, with a tree blessing by the Wrangell Cooperative Association outside the James & Elsie Nolan Center – where the 74-ft Sitka Spruce will be parked. Families will be able to sign the side of the uniquely Alaskan trailer with marker, purchase U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree souvenirs from Alaska Geographic, and learn about Alaska’s national forests and the 54-year tradition of the USDA Forest Service providing the “Peoples Tree.”
“It’s a great privilege for The People’s Tree to be coming from the Tongass this year,” said Tongass National Forest Deputy Supervisor Clint Kolarich. “We’re excited to be a part of this historic undertaking and the Wrangell Cooperative Association along with the Community of Wrangell have been amazing partners.”
The City and Borough of Wrangell incorporated this unique event into their existing, three-day harvest celebration, which features live music, a pumpkin patch, Halloween themed parties and more. Find out more at https://travelwrangell.com/wrangell-cct-harvest.
After the Wrangell event, the tree and trailer will be loaded onto a barge and sent to Alaska’s “First City” for the first event of the Whistlestop Tour – a series of community celebrations along the tree’s path.
The Ketchikan event will be at the Alaska Marine Highway Terminal parking lot from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 30. The Alaska Marine Highway System donated the space, and the Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Forest Service to help build and promote the occasion. This event is still being developed, and local businesses and entertainment are encouraged to register for a free booth space to take part: https://events.humanitix.com/capitol-christmas-tree-whistlestop-tour.
“I have no doubt the community of Ketchikan is going to come together to make the most of this historic occasion,” said Kolarich.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree project is led by the Forest Service’s Alaska Region, in partnership with Society of American Foresters and presenting sponsor 84 Lumber. This is the first time the Tongass is providing the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
About the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative is a 54-year tradition in which one of America’s 154 national forests provides a tree for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The project is made possible with support from partners including nonprofit Society of American Foresters and Alaska Geographic, cash and in-kind contributions from small businesses and large corporations, as well as volunteers throughout Alaska and across the United States.
We invite everyone to learn more and follow the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree journey at:
We have officially reached our goal of 10,000 ornaments, and we couldn’t have done it without YOU! From students to community organizations —your creativity and spirit helped us to reach this incredible milestone.
Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel Inc., renowned for its exceptional service, extensive inventory, and commitment to customer satisfaction, is thrilled to once again be a part of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Initiative. For years, Hale Trailer has proudly donated the trailers necessary to transport the majestic Christmas tree from its original home to our great nation’s capital. As a leading independent trailer dealership in North America with branches across the east coast and midwest, Hale Trailer understands the importance of giving back to the community. The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Initiative is a cherished tradition that brings joy and holiday spirit to millions of people across the country. By providing our reliable and durable trailers for this special mission, Hale Trailer is honored to contribute to the success of this beloved event. Hale Trailer’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our business, from our extensive selection of trailers to our knowledgeable and dedicated team. We are proud to partner with manufacturers who share our values and provide high-quality products that meet the unique needs of our customers. Our strong relationships with these manufacturers allow us to offer exceptional support and customized solutions.
Whether you’re looking to purchase, rent, or lease a trailer, Hale Trailer is your one-stop shop for all your transportation needs. Our extensive inventory ensures that we have the perfect trailer for any application, from flatbeds and reefers to dumps and lowboys. With our commitment to customer service and our reputation for reliability, you can trust Hale Trailer to deliver the highest quality products and services. So, as the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree embarks on its journey from Alaska to Washington, D.C., know that Hale Trailer is proud to be a part of this magical tradition. We are honored to contribute to the joy and wonder this special tree brings to people nationwide.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is thrilled to participate in the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree journey this year. As an agency committed to ensuring safety in commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operations, FMCSA views this initiative as a unique opportunity to engage with the public to raise awareness about safe driving practices, and the collective responsibility we all share in ensuring safe travel during the busy holiday season.
As the agency works to enhance safety standards and reduce crashes on our roads, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree journey offers a platform to remind the public of the importance of safety around large trucks and buses during the holiday season. With increased travel during this period, we take this opportunity to highlight crucial safety messages for both CMV and personal drivers.
Additionally, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree journey provides FMCSA with a chance to celebrate and support the communities that play a vital role in road safety. By participating in this event, we acknowledge the efforts of truck drivers, transportation professionals, and local communities who prioritize road safety. This involvement allows us to express appreciation for the hard work and dedication of those who contribute to safer roadways.
At Alaska’s News Source, our mission is to Tell Alaska’s Story. This is not only what we do, but also our responsibility, and we take tremendous pride in fulfilling that responsibility to the people of Alaska every day.
Traveling by commercial and bush plane, snowmachine, boat, off the road, across the country, and around the globe — at Alaska’s News Source, we know Alaska’s borders are not boundaries when it comes to keeping Alaskans informed and delivering award-winning content.
One of our largest contributions to the communities in which we serve is in documenting and sharing history. For us, it was an easy decision to partner with the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative. We wanted Alaskans from the Panhandle to the North Slope, and all the rural and urban communities in between, to enjoy the journey and follow along as the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree makes its way from the Tongass National Forest to our nation’s capital city. We’re proudly documenting this exciting story for Alaska, and we’re thrilled to have a part in telling it.
JUNEAU, Alaska – June 17, 2024 – The Alaska Region of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, which features the Tongass and Chugach National Forests, is proud to reveal the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree logo. Symbolizing Alaska’s National Forests and the theme, “Where Nature, People, and Tradition come together,” the logo represents “The People’s Tree” to Americans across the country.
“Team Alaska is proud to unveil the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree logo,” said Chad VanOrmer, Regional Forester. “What a great symbol to represent Alaska’s gift to the American people this holiday season.”
“The People’s Tree” is an annual icon of hope and celebration, and this year’s logo offers an opportunity to highlight Alaska’s majestic landscape, unique culture, rich traditions, diverse ecosystems, and abundant resources. It also speaks to the deep connection Alaskans, especially Alaska Natives, have with the lands they call home.
Artist Mike Hoyt was selected by the Wrangell Cooperative Association to design the traditional Alaska Native element that frames the majestic scene created by Shannon Holt, a Forest Service employee at the Chugach National Forest. Together, their work truly represents Alaska’s National Forests and the natural wonder that continues to bring us together.
The first element of the logo is a red ribbon that brings to mind the spirit of giving associated with the holiday season. Written across the top ribbon, “Alaska’s National Forests” represents the two forests. On the lower portion of the ribbon, the words “Kayéil’, Sagú, Ḵa Toowúk’éi” relay a special greeting in the Tlingit language to all who see the logo. It translates to “Peace, Joy and Happiness.”
Along the sides of the second element of the logo is form line art representing a raven (left) and an eagle (right), two moieties commonly found in the Indigenous cultures of southeast Alaska, from which this special tree will come. Across the top, “2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree” proudly announces “The People’s Tree,” a symbol of the holidays for everyone across our great and vast country.
The logo’s final element is a scene bathed in alpenglow, depicting the Alaska Region theme. A majestic Sitka spruce stands prominently in the center to represent this gift to the American people. Around it, retreating glaciers expose extensive forests and wetlands, while in the sky above, the North Star and the Big Dipper serve as unmistakable symbols of Alaska, and the aurora reinforces its majestic qualities. Silhouettes of birds, fish, and wildlife symbolize nature’s creatures whose lives are so intertwined with our own, and finally, two human figures represent all of us and our shared love for this special land.
Once the tree is selected and harvested, it will be transported by sea to Seattle, then transferred to a truck and trailer before setting out on a Whistlestop Tour across the country to Washington, D.C. There, it will be delivered to the U.S. Capitol and decorated with thousands of ornaments hand-made by Alaskans across the state.
The first and only previous U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to come from Alaska was harvested from the Chugach National Forest in 2015. This year, the tree will come from the Tongass National Forest – America’s largest national forest.
We invite everyone to learn more and follow the journey of the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree at:
JUNEAU, Alaska – March 27, 2024 – The Alaska Region of the Forest Service, which features the Tongass and Chugach National Forests, is honored to have been selected to provide the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. An annual symbol of hope and celebration, the tree offers an opportunity to showcase Alaska’s majestic landscape, unique culture, rich traditions, diverse ecosystems, and abundant resources. The tree will symbolize Alaskans’ connection to the lands they call home, as well as the special relationships between our forests and the tribal communities, partners, and sponsors coming together to send this unique holiday gift to the U.S. Capitol.
The first and only previous U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to come from Alaska was sent from the Chugach National Forest in 2015. This year, the tree will come from the Tongass National Forest – America’s largest national forest.
“I am excited to announce that Alaska’s Tongass National Forest has been chosen to provide this year’s Capitol Christmas Tree to grace the West Lawn. The Tongass is a special place for so many Alaskans who call it home – a place rich with resources and Native cultural history. This holiday season, I can’t wait to share some of the amazing aspects of the region and our state with the Capitol and the entire nation as we welcome The People’s Tree,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “In 2015, Alaska’s other national forest, the Chugach National Forest, provided the Capitol Tree for the first time. Each forest acts as a hub of recreation and opportunity for thousands of Alaskans, a source of pride across our state. I look forward to once again spotlighting the majesty of Alaskan trees during Christmastime in the nation’s capital.”
“It’s an honor to have the 2024 U.S. Capitol tree come from Alaska,” said Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. “With over 22 million acres of pristine wilderness, Alaska’s forests not only symbolize the grandeur of our nation but also embody the spirit of resilience and unity. As we prepare to share a piece of Alaska with the nation, I want to acknowledge Alaska’s National Forests team for their tireless work. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
“On behalf of the hundreds of Forest Service employees who call Alaska Home, please know that as Team Alaska, we are overjoyed to be able to be a part of something bigger than ourselves, and to spread joy and cheer across the country,” said Acting Alaska Regional Forester Chad VanOrmer.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree – known as “The People’s Tree,” reflecting the nickname for the U.S. House of Representatives, “The People’s House” – adorns the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol and has been selected each year since 1970 from a different National Forest.
The Alaska Region has partnered with nonprofits Society of American Foresters and Alaska Geographic to create a conservation education campaign directly tied to the project, educating Alaskans and Americans nationwide on Alaska’s National Forests and the multi-use mission of the agency. The Society of American Foresters and Alaska Geographic will also support a “whistlestop tour” to communities across the country as the tree is transported from Alaska to Washington, D.C. The campaign is made possible with support from 2024 presenting sponsor, 84 Lumber, contributions from companies large and small, and with vital participation of volunteers locally and across America.
We invite everyone to learn more and follow the journey of the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree at:
The first element of the logo is a red ribbon that brings to mind the spirit of giving associated with the holiday season. Written across the top ribbon, “Alaska’s National Forests” represents the two forests. On the lower portion of the ribbon, the words “Kayéil’, Sagú, Ḵa Toowúk’éi” relay a special greeting in the Tlingit language to all who see the logo. It translates to “Peace, Joy and Happiness.”
