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.

Travel Information

The National Christmas Tree Lighting
on the Ellipse
Washington, DC

Hours: Program begins at 5 pm. Gates open at 3:30 pm, ticket holders must be in their seats by 4:30 pm.

Trees are lit daily until January 1st from dusk to 11 pm.

Admission: Tickets are available by lottery in early November for the lighting ceremony. After the lighting ceremony the attraction is free.

Parking: No on-street parking is available by the White House. Visitors are strongly urged to use public transportation. Limited parking is available along Constitution Avenue between 15th and 17th Streets on evenings and weekends.

Metrorail: Federal Triangle on Orange and Blue lines; Metro Center on Orange, Blue, and Red lines; McPherson Square on Orange and Blue lines.

Nearby Attractions

White House

Washington Monument

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.

For more information visit: www.nps.gov/whho/national_christmas_tree_program.htm

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