Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest to Provide 2025 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree in 2025

The holiday season across America will be getting a Nevada twist in 2025, as the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest has been chosen to provide the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. For the first time in history, a tree from Nevada will illuminate the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, marking a momentous occasion for the Silver State and a testament to its rugged beauty.

This announcement brings a surge of pride to Nevada residents and outdoor enthusiasts. Governor Joe Lombardo celebrated the news, highlighting Nevada’s wide-open landscapes as both a cultural and economic treasure. “In the spirit of shared stewardship, the state of Nevada looks forward to partnering with the U.S. Forest Service to provide the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree and showcase what’s special about the Silver State,” he said.

a woman and child walking through the snow with a tree

The significance of this selection isn’t lost on local communities, either. For decades, families across Nevada have embraced the tradition of heading into the forest to cut their own Christmas trees, an activity steeped in joy, bonding, and an enduring connection to the land. This cherished ritual is a hallmark of the winter season in the Sierra, providing memories that span generations.

Senator Catherine Cortez Masto echoed this sentiment, stating, “A Christmas tree from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest will spark the joy of the holiday season for all Americans, and it will deepen our country’s appreciation for all that Nevada’s public lands have to offer.”

A Historic First for Nevada

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, also known as the “People’s Tree,” has been a holiday tradition since 1964. Each year, the Forest Service works with the Architect of the Capitol to select a tree that meets precise standards of beauty, height, and symmetry. While national forests across the country have had the honor of providing the tree, Nevada has never been selected—until now.

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the largest national forest in the contiguous United States, spans over six million acres of diverse landscapes in Nevada and California. Forest Supervisor Jon Stansfield emphasized the importance of this selection: “The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is unlike any other, encompassing magnificent mountain and high desert landscapes that offer more than beauty—they support Nevada’s economy and way of life. We are deeply honored to provide the centerpiece for our nation’s celebration in 2025.”

A Community Effort

The journey from Nevada to Washington, D.C., will involve a collaborative effort between local organizations, communities, and volunteers. Nonprofits such as the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and Sierra Forever will assist in harvesting, decorating, and transporting the tree. Along the way, the tree will make stops across Nevada, giving communities the chance to celebrate this historic honor.

“The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree effort uniquely crosses all of our differences to bring communities together,” said SAF CEO Terry Baker. “We’re excited to highlight the amazing resources of Nevada and its first U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.”

Christmas Trees BLM
Christmas Trees BLM

The Tradition of Tree Cutting in the Sierra

For families in the Sierra Nevada and beyond, the act of venturing into the forest to cut down a Christmas tree is a beloved winter tradition. It’s a day filled with laughter, hot cocoa, and the thrill of finding the perfect tree. Articles on Christmas tree permits and cutting locations consistently rank among the most-read winter features on Sierra Rec Magazine, underscoring the deep connection between readers and this outdoor experience.

As someone who has shared this tradition with my own family for generations, I’ve witnessed firsthand the joy it brings. There’s something magical about stepping into the crisp winter air, saw in hand, and finding the tree that will bring warmth and light to your home. It’s a tradition that bridges the past and present, connecting us to the land and to one another.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The selection of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree not only shines a spotlight on Nevada’s natural beauty but also reminds us of the importance of our public lands. As the tree makes its way to Washington, it will carry with it the spirit of the Silver State and the collective pride of its people.

Next Winter / holiday season as families across the Sierra head out to harvest their own trees, they’ll do so with the added excitement of knowing that one of Nevada’s own will stand tall in the nation’s capital. It’s a reminder that even in the smallest traditions, like cutting down a Christmas tree, we’re part of something much larger—a shared celebration of nature, community, and the joy of the holiday season.

About the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative is a 55-year tradition in which one of America’s 154 national forests provides a tree for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The project is made possible with support from partners including nonprofits Society of American Foresters and Sierra Forever, along with contributions from companies and volunteers across America.

We invite the public to follow the 2025 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree project:

To learn more about the history of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, visit https://www.aoc.gov/what-we-do/programs-ceremonies/capitol-christmas-tree. Follow along at www.uscapitolchristmastree.com.