The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is making a stop in Richmond on its journey to Washington, D.C., and the community is preparing a downtown celebration to welcome it.

On Saturday, November 14, from 5 to 7 p.m., Main Street will be transformed into a holiday gathering place with ice skating, local vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

Known as “The People's Tree,” the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is traveling from Idaho to the nation's capital, where it will be displayed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol during the holiday season.

What to Expect Downtown

The celebration will take place along Main Street, with the tree and its transport truck stationed in the 800 block.

According to event organizers, planned activities include:

• Holiday ice skating near the 900 block of Main Street

• Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus

• Pop-up shops featuring local businesses

• Community nonprofit booths and family activities

• Holiday music and live entertainment

• Opportunities to see the Capitol Christmas Tree up close

Participating organizations include Morrison-Reeves Library, Cope Environmental Center, Richmond Civic Theatre, United Way of Whitewater Valley and several other local groups.

Richmond Civic Theatre is scheduled to feature musical performances from the cast of Annie, while the Reid Center plans to offer building tours and Christmas music.

Visitors will also have an opportunity to take home a commemorative ornament celebrating the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree's visit to Richmond. According to event organizers, ornaments will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to one per family while supplies last.

Local food vendors and businesses will also participate in the celebration.

Main Street Closures Planned

Main Street is expected to be closed between 7th and 10th Streets to accommodate the event, with the tree's transport truck parked in the 800 block.

The celebration is being organized with support from several community partners, including the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Richmond, Richmond Urban Enterprise Association and Visit Richmond.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tradition dates back more than five decades, with a national forest selected each year to provide the tree displayed outside the Capitol.

Richmond residents will have an opportunity to become part of that tradition before the tree continues east toward Washington, D.C.

The event is free and open to the public.

For updates and additional event details, visit the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce event page.