On December 11, 2003, the lights on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree brightened the skies of the West Front Lawn. Architect of the Capitol Alan Hantman hosted the 40th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. The Honorable J. Dennis Hastert, the Speaker of the House, pressed the button that lit up 10,000 lights adorning the Engelmann Spruce that traveled from Idaho's Boise National Forest.

The 65-foot tree also is decorated with more than 6,000 ornaments crafted by Idahoans that symbolize the state and large, globe-shaped ornaments.

The program also included a performance by the Snake River High School Chamber Choir from Blackfoot, Idaho. In addition, the U.S. Army Band, "Pershing's Own," and the Congressional Chorus performed festive holiday carols.

The Christmas Tree has been a tradition at the U.S. Capitol since 1964. The tree was lit from night fall until 11 p.m. each evening through January 1, 2004.