For Schools

The Capitol Christmas Tree 2008 Project

Montana has been asked to provide the Capitol Christmas Tree which will be displayed in Washington, DC throughout the 2008 Christmas season.

This 60 plus foot tree is coming from our own Bitterroot National Forest, and in keeping with the theme of "Sharing Montana's Treasures," will be our gift to the nation.

In addition to providing the tree that will serve as the holiday centerpiece on the Capitol Lawn, 5,000 handmade ornaments will be needed to adorn the tree. Seventy-five smaller trees to decorate offices through the Washington D.C. area have also been asked for, and those will need a few ornaments too.

Outdoor Ornament Lesson Plans

The Montana Arts Council commissioned four ornament lesson plans from Montana teaching artists. The lessons are easy, fun and use inexpensive or free materials. The ornaments are gorgeous. See examples below and download the directions. School student ornaments are due May 1, 2008. Youth and adult organization ornaments are due September 30, 2008. Ship ornaments to: Nan Christianson, Bitterroot National Forest, 1801 N 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The complete information sheet can be downloaded below.