Now standing tall and proud, the National Christmas Tree outside of the White House is ready to illuminate the 2023 holiday season in a truly special ceremony.
A Time-Honored Tradition
The 101st National Christmas Tree Lighting is a cherished annual tradition that dates back to 1923. While President Calvin Coolidge officially started the tradition, there were earlier community Christmas celebrations at the U.S. Capitol and other locations in Washington, D.C. This time-honored tradition symbolizes unity and joy, bringing people together to celebrate this festive season.
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Watch the Celebration Unfold
Even if you can't be in Washington, D.C., there are still plenty of ways to be a part of the momentous ceremony. From witnessing the official lighting to enjoying performances by a variety of talented bands and artists, here's what you need to know to watch the tree lighting in all its glory.
When is the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony?
The official ceremony and tree lighting is scheduled for Thursday, November 30th at 5 p.m. ET. Only lucky winners of a ticket lottery will be able to attend the ceremony in person. The submissions for the lottery ended on November 8th.
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But don't fret! The National Christmas Tree site will be open to the public from December 2nd to January 1st. Visit between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, or extend your visit until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The tree's magical lights turn on around sunset every evening, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
First Lady Jill Biden has also revealed the seasonal and holiday decorations inside the White House, which are beautifully themed around "Magic, Wonder, and Joy" of the Holidays.
How to Watch the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
USA TODAY has got you covered! They will be providing live coverage of the ceremony. You can stream the video at the top of their page or on USA TODAY's YouTube channel.
And if you happen to miss the live event, don't worry! The ceremony will be broadcast on December 15th at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. You can also stream it live on Paramount+.
Where Does the National Christmas Tree Come From?
This year's National Christmas Tree is brand new, serving as a replacement for the previous tree that was planted in 2021. The National Park Service made this decision after the previous tree developed needle cast, a fungal disease causing the needles to turn brown and fall off.
The new tree is a magnificent 40-foot Norway spruce, cut from the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. The National Park Service partnered with the USDA Forest Service to find and transport this majestic tree to Washington, D.C. for everyone to enjoy. After this holiday season, the National Park Service and their event partners will evaluate whether to continue using a cut tree or plant a new one to continue this cherished tradition.
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Exciting Performances Await
The National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will be graced with the presence of talented performers and musicians. Hosted by the captivating country singer Mickey Guyton, the event will feature performances by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Guardians Big Band, Darren Criss, Samara Joy, Ledisi, Reneé Rapp, St. Vincent, Joe Walsh, and Dionne Warwick. Get ready to be enchanted by their melodious voices and captivating stage presence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in person?
A: Only winners of a ticket lottery have the opportunity to attend the ceremony in person. The submission period for the lottery has already ended.
Q: Can I visit the National Christmas Tree site?
A: Yes, the National Christmas Tree site will be open to the public from December 2nd to January 1st, offering a magical experience for visitors. The viewing hours are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Make sure to witness the mesmerizing lights turning on around sunset every evening.
Q: How can I watch the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony if I can't be there in person?
A: You can enjoy the live coverage of the ceremony on USA TODAY's website or their YouTube channel. If you miss the live event, the ceremony will be broadcast on CBS on December 15th at 8 p.m. ET. Additionally, you can stream it live on Paramount+.
Q: Where does the National Christmas Tree come from?
A: This year's National Christmas Tree is a 40-foot Norway spruce, carefully selected from the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. The National Park Service, in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service, has brought this majestic tree to Washington, D.C. for everyone to admire and enjoy.
Q: Will there be performances during the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony?
A: Absolutely! Get ready to be entertained by an extraordinary lineup of performers, including the U.S. Coast Guard’s Guardians Big Band, Darren Criss, Samara Joy, Ledisi, Reneé Rapp, St. Vincent, Joe Walsh, and Dionne Warwick. Their amazing talent will make this ceremony even more memorable.
As the iconic National Christmas Tree illuminates the night sky, it fills the air with a sense of wonder and joy, reminding us of the magic of the holiday season. Whether you witness it in person or from the comfort of your own home, this cherished tradition promises to create lasting memories for all. So mark your calendars and get ready to be captivated by the 101st National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony!
