J. Brett Blanton, 12th Architect of the Capitol, welcomes and accepts the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree.
J. Brett Blanton, 12th Architect of the Capitol, welcomes and accepts the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree.

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) selects the annual U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree in consultation with the United States Forest Service.

This year's selection, a 55-foot Engelmann spruce, was harvested on November 5 and arrived at the U.S. Capitol on November 20 after traveling cross-country by truck.

Upon arrival at the U.S. Capitol, the AOC Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team secures the tree and decorates it with thousands of handcrafted ornaments from the people of Colorado.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is a time-honored tradition of more than 50 years. Once decorated it will be lit from nightfall until 11 p.m. each evening through Christmas.

The AOC Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team prepares to move the tree from the truck to the West Front Lawn.
The 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree being placed on the West Front Lawn.
The AOC Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team moves the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree up the West Front Lawn.
The AOC Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team moves and secures the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree on the West Front Lawn.

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