U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
For more than 50 years, a Christmas tree has graced the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The 2023 tree will come from the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. From ornament-making and special events to sponsorships and celebrations, we invite you to follow the journey to Washington, D.C., throughout the year.
Since 2012, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has proudly sponsored the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
TCA Member Werner Enterprises has been chosen to transport the 2023 tree. Congratulations, Werner!
2023 Capitol Christmas Tree Tour Schedule
Interested in seeing photos of “The People’s Tree?” Come see it at one of the Whistle Stops below as it makes it way to the U.S. Capitol.
- Saturday, Nov. 4, 6:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. Elkins Depot Welcome Center (315 Railroad Ave, Elkins, WV 26241)
- Sunday, Nov. 5, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Summersville Arena and Conference Center (3 Armory Way, Summersville, WV 26651)
- Monday, Nov. 6, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Mitchell Chevrolet (400 8th St, Marlinton, WV 24954)
- Tuesday, Nov. 7, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Tamarack Marketplace (One Tamarack Place, Beckley, WV 25801); 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. WV State Capitol Complex (1716 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305)
- Wednesday, Nov. 8, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Former ACF Industries Parking Lot (3rd Avenue between 22nd and 24th streets, Huntington, WV 25703)
- Thursday, Nov. 9, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. White Palace at Wheeling Park (1801 National Road, Wheeling, WV 26003)
- Friday, Nov. 10, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 84 Lumber (3208 Earl L. Core Road, Morgantown, WV 26508)
- Saturday, Nov. 11, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Operation Welcome Home at Mylan Park (452 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV 26501); 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. West Virginia University at Downtown Morgantown (243 High St, Morgantown, WV 26505)
- Sunday, Nov. 12, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Swilled Dog/Raymond’s Gymnastic Center (28 Industrial Park Road, Upper Tract, WV 26866)
- Monday, Nov. 13, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. DavisYard (533 William Avenue, Davis, WV 26260)
- Tuesday, Nov. 14, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. WV Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (301 E Main St, Romney, WV 26757)
- Wednesday, Nov. 15, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Harpers Ferry Job Corps Center (146 Buffalo Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425)
- Thursday, Nov. 16, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Joint Base Andrews (Base only)
- Friday, Nov. 17, Delivery to West Lawn, U.S. Capitol Building
Historic Whistle Stops
TCA has worked alongside several major players in the trucking industry to coordinate the logistics of bringing the tree to many communities along its route to Washington, DC.
In 2020, TCA member Cargo Transporters, Chairman Dennis Dellinger hosted a whistle stop at the Asheville Outlets in mid-November.
In 2019, TCA member Trekker Logistics, Chairman Josh Kaburick, and TCA Highway Angel Spokesperson and Nashville Recording Artist Lindsay Lawler, hosted a whistle stop in downtown Nashville at the Bridgestone Arena in mid-November.
In 2018, TCA members Searcy Specialized (Harrison, Ohio) and Meritor/MHC Kenworth (Kansas City, Missouri) hosted whistle stops in mid-November.
In 2017, TCA members Britton Transport (Grand Forks, North Dakota) and Meritor/MHC Kenworth (Kansas City, Missouri) hosted whistle stops in mid-November.
In 2015, Garner Trucking, Inc. hosted a whistle stop in Findlay, Ohio on November 16, 2015.
Each year, during TCA’s Annual Conventions, TCA’s Communication & Image Policy Committee co-chairs recognize these hosts for their efforts. Thank you, hosts!
Press Releases
TCA and D.M. Bowman, Inc. to Host 2021 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Whistle Stop
Williamsport, Maryland:
Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building for the holiday season. This year, California’s Six Rivers National Forest, in partnership with nonprofit partner Choose Outdoors and Visit California, will haul this special gift — an 84-foot tall White Fir — from California to Washington, D.C. by truck.
During its 4,000-mile trek, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, also called “The People’s Tree,” will make a special stop at the Williamsport Town Hall located at 2 N. Conococheague St. in Williamsport, Maryland from 4 to 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 16.
The event is free and open to the public.
The event is hosted by the Truckload Carriers Association, D.M. Bowman, Inc., the Town of Williamsport, and the Visit Hagerstown – Washington County Conventions & Visitors Bureau.
“For nearly a decade, the Truckload Carriers Association has sponsored ‘The People’s Tree,’” shared TCA President John Lyboldt. “What a great way to kick off the holiday season and showcase how the trucking industry plays an essential role in delivering many types of goods and services – including this piece of history. Be sure to mark your calendars for this family-friendly event.”
Thanks to supportive partners, the event will offer:
- Remarks by FMCSA Deputy Administrator Meera Joshi;
- A personal marker to sign the tree’s banner;
- Santa and Mrs. Claus;
- Balloon animals by Rick Reed Magic & Balloons;
- Live remote broadcasts with WWEG, 106.9 The Eagle; WAFY Key 103, Max Country 100.5/93.5; 102.1More FM; and WARK 98.9FM;
- Three commemorative ornaments for purchase;
- Hot cocoa station and local food and beverage vendors;
- Toys 4 Tots drive and more!
“The annual journey is only possible with the help of strong community partnerships throughout California and beyond,” said Choose Outdoors President Bruce Ward. “We’re grateful for the time and resources TCA and our partners are providing to help make this the best year yet.”
For news, events, and tour information, visit www.uscapitolchristmastree.com.
To learn more about the whistle stop, visit www.truckload.org/CCT. Attending the event? Share photos and videos by using the hashtag #CCTWilliamsport on social media.
‘The People’s Tree’ Makes Stop in Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina
Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building for the holiday season. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests in partnership with nonprofit partner Choose Outdoors and Colorado Tourism will bring this special gift from Colorado to Washington, D.C. for the 2020 holiday season with support from sponsors, including the Truckload Carriers Association.
Under the theme, Experience Your Nature, the 55’ tall Engelmann Spruce will be cut on the Uncompahgre National Forest on November 6 and prepared for the nearly 2,000-mile expedition. The journey will include a series of 10 outdoor, community celebrations primarily within the state of Colorado and will be delivered to the U.S. Capitol on November 20. The tree will then be decorated by handmade ornaments specially created by Coloradans and be lit on the West Lawn in early December.
“For the tenth year, the Truckload Carriers Association is honored to support the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative,” shares its President John Lyboldt. “We’re looking forward to hosting a whistle stop in Asheville, North Carolina, which will provide an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of the season in Asheville and on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol. We are thankful to our National Forest’s dedicated and professional workforce for all they do throughout the year and during this special occasion.”
This year’s whistle stop — a free event, open to the public — will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 17 at the Asheville Outlets in the Food Court Parking Lot.
Event goers can participate by remaining in their vehicle, passing through the event to see “The People’s Tree,” or socially distance in person to enjoy offerings by local vendors. View event map here.
Thanks to our supportive partners, the event will offer:
- Complimentary bags which contain hand sanitizer and a personal marker to sign the tree’s banner (while supplies last);
- Live remote broadcasts with iHeart Media’s 99.9 KISS Country Eddie Fox, 104.3 STAR Ariel Rymer, and 570 WWNC Mark Starling;
- Hot cocoa station, ITeam Games, and photobooth sponsored by Ingles Markets;
- Toy drive benefitting Eblen Charities;
- Food and beverages by Chick-fil-A and Sierra Nevada; and
- A special appearance by Santa Claus.
“The annual journey is only possible with the help of strong community partnerships throughout Colorado and beyond state lines,” said Choose Outdoors President Bruce Ward. “We’re grateful for the time and resources TCA is providing to help make this the best year yet.”
The initiative made possible with cash and in-kind contributions from companies large and small as well as volunteers locally and across America, who provide vital support of time and resources. 2020 sponsors include Kenworth Truck Company, Apex Transportation, 42 Degrees North Media, Spireon, Inc., Hale Trailer, Chuck Leavell, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, STIHL, Truckload Carriers Association, Great West Casualty Company, Valley Crane, Red Wing Shoes, National Forest Foundation, Society of American Foresters, LexisNexis VitalChek Network, Inc., The Joy Trip Project, Loki, Montrose County, Delta County, Seirus, TravelCenters of America, Bass Pro Shops, Citizens State Bank, and Vesmir.
For news, events and tour information, visit uscapitolchristmastree.com and @uscapitolchristmastree on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
To view photos and updates from the Asheville event, follow the hashtag #CCTAsheville on social media networks.
Whistle Stop Hosts Recognized for Contributions
Nashville, Tennessee:
TCA member company, Trekker Logistics, and the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) Highway Angel Spokesperson and Nashville Recording Artist Lindsay Lawler, were recognized for their contributions to the 2019 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative during Sunday’s Communications & Image Policy Committee meeting at Truckload 2020: Orlando.
Trekker Logistics CEO and TCA Chairman Josh Kaburick and Lawler were presented a “2019 Whistle Stop Award” for planning and hosting TCA’s whistle stop — a free, public event — November 21 at Bridgestone Arena Plaza, located just steps from Broadway Avenue in downtown Nashville.
“We are honored that the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree visited Nashville on its journey to the nation’s capital,” said Kaburick.
For nearly 40 years, a special tree has been harvested from a U.S. national forest and transported across the country to the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
In 2019, the 70-foot Blue Spruce from the Carson National Forest in New Mexico stopped at more than 25 communities and military bases, which allows the public to view “The People’s Tree,” while also shining a spotlight on the trucking industry that makes it possible to haul the immense tree.
The whistle stop featured live music from Nashville recording artists and a local children’s choir, remarks by Nashville’s Deputy Mayor, balloon artists, as well as commemorative ornaments for purchase.
View photos from these whistle stops.
The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests in Colorado will provide the 2020 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. For more information about the initiative, visit www.uscapitolchristmastree.com.
View photos and updates from Truckload 2020: Orlando by following the hashtag #2020TCA on social media networks.
Central Oregon Trucking Company, Inc., Meritor, Inc., and Searcy Specialized recognized for their contributions to the 2018 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative
Central Oregon Truck Company, Inc. of Redmond, Oregon, Searcy Specialized of Harrison, Ohio, and Meritor, Inc. of Kansas City, Missouri were recognized for their contributions to the 2018 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree during Sunday’s Communications & Image Policy Committee meeting at the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) 81st Annual Convention in Las Vegas.
Searcy Specialized and Meritor, Inc. each received a “2018 Whistle Stop Award” while the 2018 Best Fleets to Drive For Small Carrier Category Winner Central Oregon Truck Company was presented an inaugural award – “2018 Joyous Journey Award” – as they made the tree’s journey possible.
For the last 38 years, a special tree has been harvested from a U.S. national forest and transported across the country to the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Along the way, the tree makes “whistle stops” at local communities and military bases, which allows the public to view “The People’s Tree,” while also shining a spotlight on the trucking industry that makes it possible to haul the immense tree.
In November 2018, an 80-foot Noble Fir was harvested from the Willamette National Forest in Oregon. The tree began its 3,000-mile trek through two dozen communities across the country, including the Harrison, Ohio town square, where more than 3,000 locals braved the freezing temperatures to view the tree. This year the Kansas City Union Station event was open to the public which gave hundreds an opportunity to view the tree. To view photos from these whistle stops, click here.
The Carson National Forest in New Mexico will provide the 2019 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
For more information about the initiative, visit www.capitolchristmastree.com.
View photos and updates from TCA’s 81st Annual Convention by following the hashtag #2019TCA on social media networks.
‘2017 Whistle Stop Awards’ Presented to Britton Transport and Meritor, Inc.
Truckload Carriers Association Receives Appreciation Award For Spreading Recognition of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Project
Alexandria, Virginia:
Last night, at a reception held prior to the lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) was presented with the 2016 Capitol Christmas Tree Appreciation Award.
Bruce Ward, founder and president of Choose Outdoors, the non-profit organization that oversees the tree, bestowed the honor for TCA’s continuing support that has led to widespread recognition of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
According to Ward, “TCA’s enthusiasm for this nearly 50-year American tradition has helped us elevate the importance of the trucking industry in a very high-profile project that focuses on the importance of our national forests and the Christmas spirit.”
“Because of TCA, we now have increased support by many sectors of the trucking industry, including Kenworth Trucks, Hale Trailers, SkyBitz tracking, Eaton Transmissions, Meritor, Land Line, Permit Wizard, and so many more,” he said.
Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, president and CEO of Garner Transportation Group, Findlay, Ohio, and a co-chair of TCA’s Communications & Image Policy Committee, accepted the award. She was accompanied by committee member Brenda Dittmer, vice president of Weinrich Truck Line Inc. of Hinton, Iowa, and by TCA staff members John Lyboldt, Debbie Sparks, Marli Hall, and Ron Goode.
Today, Brumbaugh, Dittmer, and the TCA staff will be participating in a full day of tree-related activities: a breakfast hosted by the Idaho State Society, a U.S. Forest Service Chief’s reception, the actual tree lighting, and finally a Congressional reception with U.S. Senator from Idaho Mike Crapo.
Over the years, TCA has done many things to promote the transportation of “The People’s Tree” from its originating forest to its final destination on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Previous initiatives have included hosting “whistle stops” at high-profile public venues like a Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans football game and sponsoring the post-tree-lighting reception. It has also worked with the state trucking associations of Minnesota, Alaska, and Idaho when that year’s tree originated from their state.
The Capitol Christmas Tree has been a tradition at the U.S. Capitol since 1964. At 5 p.m. ET tonight, it will be lit by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, with Architect of the Capitol Stephen T. Ayers, AIA, LEED AP, serving as master of ceremonies. After tonight, the tree will be lit from dusk until 11 p.m. each evening throughout the holiday season. The full display includes smaller companion trees and 6,000 ornaments made by schoolchildren from Idaho.
‘Ultimate Whistle Stop’ Award Presented to Sherri Garner Brumbaugh
Las Vegas, Nevada:
Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, president and CEO of Garner Transportation Group, Findlay, Ohio, has earned special recognition for her involvement with transporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree this past holiday season. The “Choose Outdoors Leadership Award” was presented to her at the board meeting of the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), which has been a proud partner of the tree since 2012.
Bruce Ward, founder and president of Choose Outdoors, the non-profit organization that assists the U.S. Forest Service in overseeing the tree, made the presentation during TCA’s Annual Convention at the Wynn Las Vegas Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.
For the last 36 years, a special tree has been harvested from a U.S. national forest and transported across the country to the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Along the way, the tree makes “whistle stops” at local communities and military bases, which allows the general public to view it, while also shining a spotlight on the trucking industry that makes it possible to haul the immense tree.
Steps taken to create the highly successful event will be compiled into a manual that other trucking companies can emulate for their own Whistle Stops in support of transporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
Although other Whistle Stops had been hosted by various companies and organizations, Brumbaugh’s event stood out from the others for its outstanding hospitality. The trophy’s inscription said it was for her “amazing coordination of the Ultimate Whistle Stop.”
“On behalf of the entire Tree team, we felt you provided a truly all-star turnout, complete with local dignitaries, the media, and lots of participants,” said Ward. “You got the schools involved and managed to elevate the messages associated with the Capitol Christmas Tree and welcome ceremonies. You did a tremendous job.”
Brumbaugh, who is a long-time member of TCA and co-chair of its Communications & Image Policy Committee, has agreed to write down the steps she took to plan her Whistle Stop, thus creating a manual that other trucking companies can use as a template to plan their own events.
After reading the manual for ideas, trucking companies can select a Whistle Stop this summer for the city/town of their choice and fill out an online application for the right to host it.
“These Whistle Stops really bring out the families and children of America, showing them first-hand the essentiality of trucking,” said John Lyboldt, TCA’s president. “It’s very impressive to see the huge tree specially wrapped and loaded for its long journey. It makes quite an impression on people, so we’re pleased that Sherri did such a good job and has been duly recognized for her hard work.”
Truckload Carriers Association Brings U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to Cleveland Browns Football Game on November 16
Alexandria, Virginia:
The U.S. Capitol Christmas tree has left the Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota and will stop in about 30 communities across the country as it travels by truck on its way to the U.S. Capitol in time for the holidays. As part of the 2,000-mile journey, the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has arranged for the tree to stop at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, where locals can view it prior to the Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans football game on November 16, 2014, from 10 am – 1:30 pm Eastern time.
Anyone in the Cleveland vicinity is invited to view “The People’s Tree” — not just fans attending the game. In addition to viewing the enormous 80-foot plus white spruce, participants can sign banners that line the trailer housing the tree and will receive free hot chocolate. The Cleveland Browns’ two mascots, Chomps and Brownie, will also make an appearance.
Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, president and CEO of Garner Transportation Group, Findlay, Ohio, and a co-chair of TCA’s Communications & Image Policy Committee, was one of the driving forces in bringing the tree to the Browns/Texans game. When she first learned that the tree would be coming through her home state, she realized that a high-profile sporting event would be an ideal way to spotlight the way the tree is traveling — by 18-wheeler — and to promote the trucking industry to a large number of people.
“The management of the Cleveland Browns has been very cooperative in helping us publicize the tree’s arrival,” she said. “Information has already been e-mailed to about 100,000 Browns fans, a blurb will appear in the game day program, Facebook posts and Tweets have gone out, and information was also placed on the Browns’ website. The tree is sure to attract a sizeable crowd. We want to promote patriotism and the American spirit to everyone, so the more people who can view The People’s Tree, the better!”
After finishing its cross-country tour, the tree will be placed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. It will be lit by Speaker of the House John Boehner on December 2 at 5 p.m. Architect of the Capitol Stephen T. Ayers, FAIA, LEED AP, will serve as master of ceremonies.
Whistle Stop Planning Guide
TCA members: Interested in hosting an event? View a comprehensive Whistle Stop Planning Guide created by TCA member Garner Trucking is available to help you get started.