The 2019 National Christmas Tree has begun its journey from Carson National Forest in New Mexico to the US Capitol. It’s set to be unveiled on December 5, 2019, when the National Park Service and National Park Foundation will present the annual National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at President’s Park in Washington, DC.
The 60-foot blue spruce will serve as this year’s People’s Tree at the US Capitol after its two-week journey. Three drivers will take part in the 1,500-mile trip, stopping along almost 30 communities before reaching its final destination.
“This tree is a beacon of light and inspiration and hope,” Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said in a statement. This year’s tree marks the third to be chosen from New Mexico.
The holiday tradition of the US Capitol Christmas Tree began in 1964 when Speaker of the US House of Representatives John McCormack placed a live Christmas tree on the Capitol lawn. When it was taken out by winds and root damage in 1970, the Capitol Architect asked the US Forest Service to provide a new tree. A different national forest is now chosen every year to provide the People’s Tree.
Starting November 11, you can track the Capitol Christmas Tree online. In the meantime, check out a video of the tree beginning its journey below.
2019 National Christmas Tree — Sources
Recreation.gov
Jim Douglas
Capitol Tree Tracker
