Shelton, Washington: How It Became Christmas Town USA 🎄

When people think of the holidays, they imagine twinkling lights, festive wreaths, and the scent of fresh evergreen. In the Pacific Northwest, one town has become the symbol of this spirit—Shelton, Washington, proudly known as Christmas Town USA.

But how did a small logging town in Mason County earn this festive title? The answer lies in its history, its trees, and the hardworking families—like ours at Garcia Evergreens—who have kept the tradition alive.

From Logging Camp to Evergreen Capital 🌲

Shelton was founded in the late 1800s as a logging hub, with forests of noble fir, cedar, and Douglas fir stretching as far as the eye could see. Timber built the town, but the abundance of evergreens also planted the seed for something more enduring: a Christmas legacy.

Horses hauling a spruce log 30 feet in circumference, Washington, 1905. (Darius Kinsey/Library of Congress)

Birthplace of Christmas Tree Farming 🎄

In the mid-20th century, Shelton pioneered commercial Christmas tree farming in the United States. The region’s mild climate and rich soil made it ideal for growing perfect holiday trees—especially the noble fir, known for its strong branches and beautiful fragrance.

By the 1960s, Shelton was shipping Christmas trees nationwide, earning the reputation as the “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.” This title cemented the area’s identity and inspired the town to fully embrace the Christmas spirit.

Loading Christmas Trees, Shelton, Olympic NF, WA 1950

Community Traditions That Sparked Christmas Town USA 🎅

It wasn’t just the trees—it was the people. Shelton residents leaned into their reputation with festive parades, downtown light displays, and tree-lighting ceremonies. By the 1980s, the town was hosting annual events that drew families from across the region. Eventually, Shelton adopted the official nickname “Christmas Town USA.”

Today, every December, Shelton glows with giant Christmas trees, holiday markets, and community celebrations that honor its heritage.

Mason County Christmas Parade 

Garcia Evergreens: Continuing the Tradition 🌟

At Garcia Evergreens, we are proud to be part of this story. For decades, our family has been harvesting sustainably sourced Pacific Northwest greenery—the same noble fir, cedar, and pines that made Shelton famous.

What began as hardworking families in the forests around Shelton has grown into a worldwide industry. We now ship wreaths, garlands, bouquets, and greenery across the U.S. and beyond, carrying on the legacy of Christmas Town USA.

By choosing Garcia Evergreens, you’re not just decorating your home—you’re supporting a tradition rooted in Shelton’s history and kept alive by local families who have dedicated generations to sharing the magic of the holidays.

Hand Crafting Christmas Wreath - Photo by Betsaid Garcia

Why Shelton Still Matters Today ✨

Shelton’s story reminds us that holiday traditions are built by community, heritage, and care for the land. As Christmas Town USA, it stands as a symbol of how a small Pacific Northwest town helped shape how America celebrates the holidays.

And through Garcia Evergreens, you can bring that legacy into your own home this season—fresh, fragrant, and handcrafted with care.

👉 Order your wreaths today and bring a piece of Christmas Town USA to your doorstep.