Coming Soon: the 2026 Capitol Christmas Tree

Visiting the tree is free and open to the public. No ticket required.

By AOC Staff | November 2, 2026

An infographic with short facts about the 2026 tree.

Each year, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) selects the annual U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree in consultation with the United States Forest Service. The 2026 tree is a 76-foot Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) from the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests in Idaho.

The tree is traveling from Idaho to Washington, D.C., by truck, making stops in communities along its route before it arrives at the U.S. Capitol on Friday, November 20, at 10 a.m. A team of employees from the AOC will secure and decorate the tree, ensuring it is ready to spread holiday cheer to visitors from all over the country and around the world.

The lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, a time-honored tradition of more than 60 years, will take place during a ceremony (date to be announced) on the West Front Lawn. The tree will then be lit from dusk until 11 p.m. each evening through early January 2027. 🎄

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