Paducahans will have a chance to view the National Christmas Tree next week before it’s displayed at the Capitol.
On Monday, the 80-foot Engelmann Spruce will make a brief stop in Paducah’s Noble Park as it makes its 3,000-mile trek from the Payette National Forest in Idaho to the Capitol lawn in Washington, D.C.
Paducah Power Systems holds a lighting ceremony for ‘Christmas in the Park’ decorations that evening at 5:30pm.
Throughout Tuesday, the U.S. Forest Service provides school groups educational programs about trees and wildlife, and other activities. Visitors will be able to sign the ceremonial banner traveling with the tree which will be displayed in the capitol.
“We encourage everyone to come out and view the tree and sign the banner since this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Paducah Parks' Taylor Morsching. "In addition to the tree, there will be plenty more to see and do for people of all ages. It will make for a fun atmosphere and get everyone ready for the holiday season that is almost here.”
The tree will be decorated with over one-thousand ornaments created by Idahoans, and will be officially lit on the lawn of Congress December 6th.
The Capitol Christmas Tree tradition began in 1964 and the U-S Forest Service has been asked to provide a tree each holiday season. To learn more about the tree’s route, visit www.capitoltreetracker.com or follow the tree on Facebook.