Christmas came early to Nevada this July as the state celebrated a historic first: selection as the source for the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.

Building materials distributor 84 Lumber announced its $100,000 sponsorship at a Las Vegas celebration attended by state officials and community leaders, marking the first time Nevada has provided "The People's Tree" since the tradition began in 1970. 84 Lumber has been the presenting sponsor of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree since 2022.

"This is a milestone moment for Nevada," said Sonny Vinuya, Southern Nevada outreach director for Governor Joe Lombardo's office. The governor expressed appreciation for the public-private partnership that makes the nationwide effort possible.

The chosen tree will be harvested from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the largest national forest in the lower 48 states, and must meet exacting standards: between 65 and 85 feet tall with a perfect conical shape and dense branching.

Amy Smiley, 84 Lumber's vice president of marketing, emphasized the company's local roots. "As a privately held company with deep local connections, including our Las Vegas team and store, we're proud to support something that unites people across the country," she said.

The lumber giant, which has sponsored the Capitol tree since 2022, operates in the competitive building materials sector where roofing supplies represent a significant market segment, though the company hasn't disclosed specific revenue breakdowns by product category.

Following harvest later this year, the tree will embark on a multi-state tour aboard a custom 104-foot trailer, culminating in a December lighting ceremony on the Capitol's West Lawn.

The Society of American Foresters called corporate sponsorships "vital" to continuing the tradition, with CEO Terry Baker noting they represent "an investment in conservation, community, and national goodwill."

Tour dates and stops will be announced at uscapitolchristmastree.com/calendar.