Capitol Christmas Tree Embarks on Its Journey Across the Nation

Every year, a majestic tree is chosen to represent the spirit of the holidays in Washington, D.C., and this year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is embarking on an epic journey. Courtesy of Kenworth, a T680 truck specially outfitted with festive graphics will transport the 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree all the way from Alaska's Tongass National Forest to its final destination on the West Lawn of the Capitol Building.

Celebrating the Start of the Journey

The festive kickoff for this year's tree journey begins on October 26 in Wrangell, Alaska, where the official tree harvest celebration will take place. Following the gathering, the first stop of the Whistlestop tour will be held in Ketchikan, Alaska. These events mark the tree's initial farewell from Alaska before it is carefully loaded onto an Alaska Marine Lines barge bound for Seattle, Washington. Once it reaches Seattle, the "People's Tree," as it is affectionately known, will travel more than 4,000 miles across the United States, making stops in parks, plazas, schools, and community centers along the way.

This year’s tour theme, "Where Nature, People, and Tradition Come Together," is proudly displayed on the truck's unique graphic wrap. The artwork features the beauty of Alaska's Tongass and Chugach National Forests, celebrating both the natural wonder of these regions and the rich cultural heritage they represent. The Kenworth T680 truck, specially outfitted for the journey, carries this symbolic imagery across the country as it shares the spirit of Alaska with every community it visits.

Keeping up with the journey has never been easier! Thanks to Kenworth's TruckTech+ connected truck technology, you can track the tree's real-time location throughout its journey. The trip, which starts in Alaska and concludes with the tree's delivery on November 22 in Washington, D.C., is accessible on an interactive map, allowing enthusiasts nationwide to follow along. Simply check out the Kenworth Tree Tracker 2024 to stay updated on each stop and the current position of the Capitol Christmas Tree.

Honoring a Legacy of Professional Driving

Alaska-based Lynden Transport has the prestigious role of transporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree this year. Two seasoned drivers, Fred Austin and John Schank, have been selected for the honor. Both began their careers with Lynden in 1975 and together boast over 10 million accident-free miles on the roads of Alaska. These drivers have built a remarkable reputation for their skills and professionalism, with Schank even having transported the Capitol Christmas Tree back in 2015. Their decades of service to the community make them ideal ambassadors for this cherished holiday tradition.

The Kenworth T680 truck is designed with both style and functionality in mind. This particular model, outfitted with a 76-inch sleeper and the advanced PACCAR Powertrain, is ready for the journey ahead. Equipped with a PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, a PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles, the truck offers a smooth, powerful drive. Inside, the Diamond VIT interior features slate gray accents and madrona details, while the GT703 leather seats, fully heated and cooled, provide comfort for the drivers during their cross-country trek.