The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests will provide the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to stand in front of the Nation’s Capitol in Washington, D.C.
This tree, the first U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, will be the focal point of a year of community events and festivities. These events will celebrate the past, present, and future of the forests, their partners, and surrounding communities.
The annual harvesting and cross-country delivery of the tree is one of the highlights of the trucking industry's year. The Truckload Carriers Association has long been a sponsor, and each year Kenworth has provided a specially wrapped truck for the delivery.Each year, drivers from one carrier are chosen for the haul.
“Idaho couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own trees chosen as the Nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little. “This is a great honor and a reminder of the natural beauty we’re blessed with here at home. We’re excited to share some Idaho spirit with families across the country next Christmas season.”
Partners play a significant role in making this achievement possible, including the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree national partner, the Society of American Foresters (SAF).
“2026 marks the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary. SAF is proud to continue our support of The People’s Tree as it makes its way across the country,” said SAF CEO Terry Baker. “This public/private partnership exemplifies what we can accomplish when we come together from varied backgrounds and interests with a common goal."
For 56 years, the Forest Service has partnered with the Architect of the Capitol on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. The Capitol tree is carefully selected from one of America’s 154 national forests and taken to the U.S. Capitol after a whistlestop tour in communities locally and across the U.S.
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest spans more than 4 million acres of land. Somewhere amongst its deep canyons, high mountains, and wild rivers, the tree that will grace the U.S. Capitol is growing. Over the course of this year, the Forest Service looks forward to sharing more about its rich history, fascinating ecology, and productive landscape.
Jon Word, forest supervisor on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests announced, “It is a great honor to provide the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, the “People’s Tree”, from the Nez Perce-Clearwater. We look forward to working closely with the Nez Perce Tribe, the Society of American Foresters and all our partners and communities."
