LEWISTON, ID — Idaho residents are being invited to help create thousands of handmade ornaments to represent the state on the 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.

Organizers are seeking 10,000 ornaments that will decorate both the main Capitol Christmas Tree and additional companion trees displayed throughout federal buildings in Washington, D.C. The effort is being coordinated through the U.S. Forest Service and the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

According to the announcement, 3,500 larger ornaments will be used outdoors on the Capitol tree and must be durable and weather-resistant, while 6,500 smaller ornaments will be displayed indoors on companion trees.

Guidelines call for ornaments to be lightweight, colorful and made from natural or recyclable materials when possible. Submissions must not include sharp materials, commercial logos, or political or religious messaging.

This year’s theme, “Over the rivers and through the woods,” encourages designs that reflect Idaho’s landscapes, wildlife, history and culture. Suggested ideas include forest scenes, regional wildlife, historical references and nods to outdoor recreation.

Organizers say ornaments should be approximately 9 to 12 inches for outdoor use, with smaller indoor ornaments ranging from 4 to 10 inches.

The deadline to submit ornaments is September 1, 2026. Drop-off locations include ranger stations within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.

More information is available through the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree program website.

Image credit: U.S. Forest Service / Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests