The National Christmas Tree Lighting Opening Ceremony

The Opening Ceremony of the Lighting of the National Christmas Tree is a time-honored holiday tradition which includes the illumination of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse just south of the White House. Popular entertainers and a United States military band add to the celebratory evening when the President of the United States lights the tree and brings a message of peace to the nation and world. With the White House as a backdrop, in what becomes the "Christmas Pathway of Peace," the National Christmas Tree and 56 smaller trees — one for each state, five territories and the District of Columbia — serve as the event focal point.