COEUR d’ALENE — Friday morning, the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree, en route from Idaho to Washington, D.C., will stop in Coeur d’Alene so everyone can see it.

This year, the “people’s tree” comes from the Payette National Forest.

The 80-foot-tall Engelmann spruce was cut Nov. 2 near McCall and started its journey, stopping for 25 community celebrations on its way to the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree lighting ceremony in early December.

Coeur d’Alene residents have the opportunity to see the tree, sign the truck that’s hauling it and enjoy some free hot chocolate and coffee.

The tree will be between First and Second streets on Sherman Avenue between 10 a.m. and noon Friday. There will also be cookie decorating and music.

“We are honored that the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree will visit Coeur d’Alene during Veterans Day, on its trip to Washington, D.C.,” Coeur d’Alene Mayor Steve Widmyer said. “Our community looks forward to being a part of this gift to the nation as we honor our veterans, and the joy it will bring to our own community this holiday.”

Coeur d’Alene is one of 25 stops the tree is making for community celebrations on its journey to the U.S. Capitol.

Idaho residents have made about 8,000 ornaments that will be used to decorate offices inside the U.S. Capitol building and other sites throughout Washington, D.C.

The tree's transportation and special events are covered by in-kind services, donations and overall support both locally and nationwide.