The National Christmas Tree Lighting

The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony takes place each year on the grounds of the Ellipse, south of the White House. With musical performances, and a message of hope and peace, this event kicks off the annual National Christmas Tree program, which runs until January 1st.

In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge lit a Christmas Tree on the grounds of the Ellipse. Every year, we continue that tradition, with the lighting of the National Christmas Tree. In 1954, 56 smaller trees were planted around the National Christmas Tree, representing the 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia. Each year, these trees are decorated by organizations from every state.

The National Christmas Tree Program continues until January 1st and is free to the public. The trees and their decorations are the main attraction, but the program also includes musical performances, a model train, and Santa’s Workshop. All trees are lit from dusk until 11 pm. Musical performances are performed weeknights between 6 pm and 8:30 pm, and weekends between 4 pm and 8:30 pm. The model train runs from 11 am to 11 pm. Santa and his elves are in the workshop at select times throughout December. More information on these hours can be found here.

The National Christmas Tree Lighting ticket lottery for 2011 starts on November 3rd, 2011. The Tree Lighting Ceremony itself will be held on Thursday, December 1st, 2011 beginning at 4:30pm ET.

For more information visit: http://www.thenationaltree.org/.