A juried exhibition of Arizona artwork celebrating the Arizona Christmas Tree destined for the Nation’s Capitol in 2009 is on display at the Executive Tower Lobby at the Arizona State Capitol.   The art show is hosted by Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Arizona Commission on the Arts and Arizona Art Alliance.  The exhibition features work from Arizona artists who have interpreted their vision of “Arizona’s Gift” which is the theme of the Capitol Christmas Tree 2009 project.  The art show is open during business hours, there is no charge to attend and it runs through October 30, 2009.

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Arizona has been given a grand opportunity to showcase the “Grand Canyon State” with a tree to provide that magic splendor you see each year on television of the beautiful Christmas tree illuminating the foreground of the Nation’s Capitol.  No, it’s not made in Hollywood like a stage set, it is a real tree chosen each year from a  national forest.  The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest headquartered in Springerville, AZ, is leading the production, along with many partners and sponsors.  The process is honorary, historic and a production like none other.

We will set the stage for you, giving you history of the tree, the process, pictures of the cutting, the transporting of the tree and the need for hundreds of volunteers it takes to make the tree move from the State of Arizona to Washington, DC.

There are plenty of roles to fill and we are anxious to have individuals, groups, sponsors and all Arizonians get involved at any level or capacity to make this a truly spectacular undertaking.  Take a look around the site to find out more…

You are invited to the Cutting Ceremony
of the Capitol Christmas Tree 2009

Saturday, November 7, 2009
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
8:30 a.m. musical entertainment begins
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Near Alpine, Arizona

For a map and directions to this event and information about
Arizona’s Gift to the United States Congress
please visit the official website

www.CapitolChristmasTree2009.org

American families across the nation hold fond memories of decorating their own trees over the years.  The Capitol Christmas Tree 2009 is no different.  Schoolchildren throughout Arizona will make 5,000 ornaments to be placed on the iconic symbol often called “The People’s Tree.”  An additional 1,000 ornaments will decorate 75 trees placed throughout federal buildings in the United States Capitol.  Get involved and be a part of Arizona history!

For More Information Click Here