Christmas Tree to arrive on Hill Nov. 28

The U.S. Capitol Christmas tree will arrive on the West Front on Nov. 28 at 10 a.m., the Architect of the Capitol has announced.

The 65-foot Engelmann Spruce will be adorned with more than 10,000 lights, large baubles and 3,000 decorations made by children, community groups, artisans and Native Americans to reflect the cultural heritage of New Mexico.

The tree is from Santa Fe National Forest and was harvested on Nov. 7. It traveled through 16 cities in New Mexico before continuing its journey cross-country to Washington.

Architect of the Capitol Alan Hantman will preside over the Dec. 8 tree lighting ceremony, starting at 5 p.m., and Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) will flip the switch.