2014 Capitol Christmas Tree Cutting Ceremony

It’s 88 feet tall. It’s 30 inches in diameter, and it’s coming from Minnesota all the way to Washington D.C. The Capitol Christmas Tree has officially started its over two thousand mile journey. Foresters, Leech Lake band members, and politicians watched as this year’s chosen tree was cut down in a ceremony today at the Chippewa National Forest.

The 88-foot tall white spruce doesn’t have any of the fancy tinsel of lights yet, but it’s already bringing a big piece of Minnesota to the capitol this year. Chippewa National Forest Supervisor Darla Lenz said, “The tree itself is a representation of all the wonderful natural resources that northern Minnesota has to offer. Senator Amy Klobuchar said, ” I hope it worms the hearts of those in Washington to have a little piece of Minnesota that is going to be out there in our nation’s capitol.”

Before they deck the halls, or the west lawn of the capitol, this tree will travel. The Capitol Christmas Tree will travel over two thousand miles through seven states and thirty-one communities. But in the true Christmas spirit, officials say that it’s about more than just a traveling tree. The tree represents a partnership between all Minnesotans. Senator Klobuchar said, “It will be a fitting representation of the natural beauty, the hard work, and the talent…that makes our state so incredibly special.”

The tree’s first stop will be at Itasca State Park and in Bemidji on Saturday. The tree will arrive at the capitol on November 21st.