The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will take place on December 5, 2024, at the Ellipse, which is located south of the White House in President’s Park, Washington, D.C. This beautiful location serves as a backdrop for this festive event, bringing together visitors from all over.
What to Expect
During the ceremony, we will witness the lighting of a stunning 30-foot Red Spruce tree. This tree comes from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Virginia. It will be decorated with thousands of lights and unique ornaments that represent each U.S. state and territory. The decorations are designed by students, adding a personal touch to this national symbol.
The Ceremony
The National Christmas Tree Lighting is not just about the tree; it’s a celebration filled with music and special performances. We can enjoy live entertainment from various artists, making it a joyful experience for families and friends. The lighting ceremony will be broadcasted live, allowing many of us to join in from home if we cannot attend in person.
A Rich Tradition
This event has a long history, dating back to 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first National Christmas Tree on Christmas Eve. Over the years, this tradition has grown, bringing people together to celebrate the spirit of the season. Today, it continues to be a significant part of our holiday celebrations.
Visiting the Tree
After the lighting ceremony, we can visit the National Christmas Tree throughout December. The lights will shine from sunset until 10 PM on weekdays and until 11 PM on weekends. This gives us plenty of opportunities to see the tree and take memorable photos with family and friends.
Ticket Information
To attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting, we need to secure tickets through a free lottery system. The lottery opened on October 23, 2024, and closed on October 30, 2024. All tickets are free, but each household can enter only once and request up to five tickets. It’s important to note that everyone attending, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Lottery applicants were notified about their ticket status on November 8, 2024.For those who missed the lottery or want to learn more about future events, we can check the official National Park Service website or the National Christmas Tree website for updates and additional information.
Conclusion
The National Christmas Tree Lighting is a wonderful way for us to kick off the holiday season. Whether we are attending in person or watching from home, this event reminds us of the joy and togetherness that Christmas brings. Let’s mark our calendars for December 5 and get ready to celebrate!
