Capitol Christmas Tree arrives in Sonora

Excitement has been building for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to make its way through Sonora later today for one of 27 national stops on its 3,500-mile journey to Washington, D.C.

A free community reception is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. this evening at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds at 220 Southgate Drive in Sonora, where people will be able to view the 84-foot white fir that was cut from the Six Rivers National Forest near Eureka.

The tree will be escorted through downtown Sonora on its way to the fairgrounds by the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Posse on horseback, followed by Santa Claus riding in the the city’s newest fire engine and other fire engines from the Tuolumne County Fire Department and Stanislaus National Forest.

Tuolumne County Supervisor Kathleen Haff, who coordinated the event with the county, City of Sonora and U.S. Forest Service, put out a news release encouraging people to line Washington Street and Stockton Road from 4 to 5 p.m. this afternoon to welcome the tree’s arrival.

Sonora police said there will be no road closures in place, but people should anticipate delays on South Washington Street from Highway 108 to Stockton Road when the tree comes through.

The reception at the fairgrounds will include a Native American blessing, live music by the Pinecone Performers, a welcome address from the Six Rivers National Forest, Sonora Mayor Matt Hawkins, county Board of Supervisors Chairman Ryan Campbell, and Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor Jason Kuiken.

Other activities at the fairgrounds will include an opportunity to sign an 80-foot banner that accompanies the tree, a 120foot walkway with a guided forest experience, and Forest Service goodie bags for kids.

Hot cocoa and hot spiced cider will be provided to participants, Haff’s news release said.

The release advises people to wear warm clothing and bring a flashlight. Social distancing protocols will be in place to reduce

the risk of COVID-19, with people encouraged to stay home if they feel sick and wear a mask if they’re unable to maintain social distance.

Every year since 1964, a different national forest has been selected to provide what’s referred to as “The People’s Tree” that’s displayed throughout the holiday season on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol building.

This will be the first time a national forest from California was selected since the Stanislaus National Forest did the honors in 2011.