The best things always come from Colorado! 

Each year, a new National Forest is tapped to provide the Christmas Tree, which appears on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol, and 2020 is Colorado's time to shine. 

This year's tree, and Engelmann Spruce, will come from Grand Mesa, Uncompaghre, and Gunnison National Forests on the Western Slope. In addition, the forests will provide 70-plus smaller trees for offices around Washington, D.C.

“I’m thrilled that one of Colorado’s magnificent Engelmann Spruce is heading to Washington D.C. to represent our state at the U.S. Capitol during the holidays this year,” said Governor Jared Polis in a statement. “Coloradans are proud of our state’s natural beauty, forests, and incredible outdoor spaces, and I’m glad the rest of the country will be able to see a small piece of the majesty that Colorado offers. While this is a difficult time for people across our state and across the country, I hope that Colorado’s contribution to the national Christmas spirit can help bring us all together.”

The Capitol tree is known as "The People's Tree," and it will highlight the state’s breathtaking cultural and natural resources and Colorado’s world-class recreational settings and activities. The official lighting will take place in early December.

"We sincerely hope the gift of this towering tree from Colorado for the Capitol lawn helps inspire deep pride in America the Beautiful and happiness throughout the holidays, while showcasing the splendor of Colorado’s Mountains and Mesas region," said Colorado Tourism Director Cathy Ritter.

It's also "The People's Tree" because we can all make homemade ornaments to decorate it! The official website for the tree, USCapitolChristmastree.com, says that it is collecting 3,000 large ornaments (9-12 inches in size) and 7,000 small ornaments (4-6 inches) to decorate the Colorado spruce and other trees for the holidays. 

All ornaments are due September 1, 2020. You can drop them off or mail them to Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, Supervisor’s Office, Attn: Cande Read, 2250 South Main Street, Delta, CO, 81416. If you are dropping them off, contact Cande read to make arrangements: email or call (970)-874-6609.

You can learn more about the tree, any events, and ornament information at www.uscapitolchristmastree.com/. In the meantime, check out the history of the Capitol Christmas Tree below! 

Are you excited to see Colorado's finest at the Capitol this year? Let us know in the comments.