Nevada’s “Silver Belle” Shines as the 2023 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
For the first time in the history of the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree program, Nevada is sending a tree to grace the West Lawn in Washington, D.C. The star of the season is “Silver Belle,” a 53-foot-tall, 100-year-old Nevada red fir harvested from the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest—the largest national forest in the contiguous United States.
High in the snow-laden forests near Mount Rose, “Silver Belle” stood amidst a landscape shaped by centuries of history, from the days of unregulated logging during the Comstock Lode to today’s efforts at sustainable stewardship. The red fir was chosen for its symmetrical shape, sturdy branches, and beautiful blue-green foliage—a perfect canvas for more than 10,000 handmade ornaments representing Nevada’s diverse communities.
The Capitol Christmas tree selection highlights the collaborative efforts among federal, state, tribal, and local partners, showcasing what’s possible through shared stewardship. “Silver Belle” not only serves as a festive centerpiece but also as a reminder of the importance of public lands and the ongoing need to protect Nevada’s forests, waters, and open spaces against threats like development, mining, and climate change.
Red firs, the largest tree species in the Sierra Nevada, are vital to the region’s ecology, supporting wildlife from owls and woodpeckers to martens and deer. Older trees, like “Silver Belle,” are resilient to wildfire but remain vulnerable to drought and disease. The tree’s journey to the Capitol included stops in Carson City, Lovelock, Elko, Ely, Las Vegas, and Hoover Dam, allowing Nevadans to celebrate this historic moment.
The tradition of the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree began in 1963 and has since become a symbol of unity and natural beauty. This year, fourth grader Grady Armstrong from Virginia City will help light the tree, reading his winning essay on the theme “Starry Skies to Neon Lights: Spirit of the Silver State.”
As “Silver Belle” glows on the nation’s front lawn, it stands as a tribute to Nevada’s rich landscapes, forestry heritage, and the community spirit that shapes the Silver State.