The White Mountain Apache Tribe, in partnership with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, delivered the 2023 Arizona State Christmas tree for display at the State Capitol in Phoenix.

Tribal members along with Department of Forestry and Fire Management staff hand selected the tree from the Fort Apache Indian Reservation in east Central Arizona. The 30-foot blue spruce symbolizes hope, unity, and the importance of preserving natural resources.

The blue spruce tree species grow at about 8,000 to 9,000 feet elevations in Arizona. It was chosen for its attractive bluish color, fragrance, and conical shape.

“I am deeply honored to acknowledge the request from the Arizona Governor’s Office for a Christmas tree from our beautiful Fort Apache Indian Reservation,” Tribal Chairman Kasey Velasquez shared in a press release. “This gesture demonstrates the recognition of our rich culture and the spirit of giving that the holiday season represents. The White Mountain Apache Tribe gladly accepts this opportunity to share the beauty and traditions of our land with the State of Arizona and look forward to cultivating a sense of unity and goodwill during this special time.”

The Capitol is located at 1700 W. Washington St.

“It is an absolute honor to receive the Capitol Christmas tree from the White Mountain Apache Tribe for the first holiday season of my administration,” Gov. Katie Hobbs stated. “This is the first time a Tribal Nation in Arizona has gifted the tree for the executive tower, and it’s an appropriate symbol of our ever-growing partnership.”

The White Mountain Apache Tribe is blessed with some of the most beautiful land in the southwestern United States. The Tribe manages their land to benefit all natural resources, including vegetation, soil, water, air, fish, and wildlife.

The White Mountain Apache Tribe’s gift of the Capitol Christmas tree will serve as a reminder of the strength of Arizona’s diverse cultures, and the importance of preserving the state’s heritage and natural resources.

Crews harvested the tree on Nov. 16, and delivered it to the Capitol the following day after a sendoff ceremony at the Hon-dah Casino and Resort.

The official tree lighting ceremony takes place at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 4 in the lobby of the Executive Tower.