The Capitol Christmas tree is making its way to Washington, D.C, with an expected arrival of Nov. 30.

"It's a great way to help educate Arizonans and the nation on what resources Arizona has," said Rick Davalos, project coordinator with the U.S. Forest Service. "It's been a long time coming."

The tree will go on a statewide tour of Arizona, making 25 different stops at parades, Christmas caroling events, and speeches by state dignitaries.

Loggers cut down the 85-foot blue spruce from the white mountains of Arizona. The massive tree is approximately 70-years-old and weighs 7,000 pounds.

Once the tree reaches the Capitol it will take about a week to decorate with over 10,000 lights and 5,000 ornaments made by Arizona schoolchildren.
    
Decorated Christmas trees have been a part of holiday celebrations at the Capitol since 1964. This is the first year the tree will come from Arizona.