For more than 50 years, a Christmas tree has graced the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The Payette National Forest, in partnership with nonprofit Choose Outdoors, will bring this special gift from Idaho to Washington, D.C. for the 2016 season, involving more than 25 communities along the way, including an appearance in Knoxville on November 23rd 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. on the Clinch Avenue Viaduct.
 
The tree will be cut on Nov. 2 near McCall, ID and prepared for the 2,000-mile expedition. With great fanfare, the tree will leave the Payette National Forest followed by a caravan of caretakers for the journey to the U.S. Capitol. A total of 25 community celebrations are being planned throughout the tour, culminating with the official tree lighting in early December. Smaller companion trees will also be provided by the Idaho Christmas Tree Growers to decorate offices inside the U.S. Capitol building and other sites throughout Washington, D.C., along with 8,000 ornaments designed and created by residents throughout the state of Idaho.
 
If you are planning to attend Fantasy of Trees at the Knoxville Convention Center, stop by to see the tree and enjoy festive treats.  Learn more about the tree from the U.S. Forest Service, Choose Outdoors and Partners of the Cherokee National Forest.  Smokey Bear, the mascot, will make a special appearance and U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree merchandise will be available for purchase. 
 
Associated costs are paid for in part by the U.S. Forest Service, while costs for the tree's transportation and special events are covered by in-kind services, donations and overall support both locally and nationwide, including major 2016 supporters KTVB TV 7, Idaho Potato Growers Association, Skybitz, Kenworth, Hale Trailer, Gary Amoth Trucking, Alaska Airlines, Seid Crane Service, Truckload Carriers Association, Eaton, University of Idaho, Meritor, Bass Pro Shops, and BrINC.
 
For related news, events and tour information, and to track the tree cross-country, visit www.capitolchristmastree.com and on Facebook @USCapitolChristmasTree and #capitolchristmastree.