National Christmas Tree Lighting & Pageant of Peace - Dec. 7
When President Calvin Coolidge lit the first national Christmas tree in Washington DC on the Ellipse, Christmas Eve in 1923, he began an annual tradition that continues today.
The current National Christmas tree, a 39 foot Colorado blue spruce was moved from Pennsylvania in 1978 and transplanted across from the South lawn of the White House on the Ellipse. It will be lit along with other smaller trees representing the 50 states, the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories.
The Pageant of Peace opening-night ceremony features and lighting of the national Christmas tree, holiday music performed by a U.S. Military band, choral group performances, and a holiday message from the President of the United States. Rumor has it, there may even be a visit by a jolly old man in a bright red suit.
The Pageant of Peace opening-night ceremony features and lighting of the national Christmas tree, holiday music performed by a U.S. military band, choral group performances, and a holiday message from the President Bush.
Rumor has it, there may even be a visit by a jolly old man in a bright red suit. There’s also a model train exhibit that runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
And from December 9-23, visitors can enjoy holiday musical groups performing on the outdoor stage.
Date
December 7, 2006
Time
5:00 p.m.
Location
The Ellipse near The White House.
Tickets
Tickets are required and 2,800 were available for distribution by the National Park Service starting November 4th at the Ellipse Vistor’s Center. I assume that all the tickets have been distributed by now, but it’s still worthwhile to go visit the Ellipse during the holiday season to see the tree and related exhibits. I prefer to go a few days after the lighting for an enjoyable evening walk, plus you avoid the crowds.
Nearest Metro subway station
- Federal Triangle station - Blue and Orange lines
- Metro Center - Red, Blue and Orange lines
Photo credits: Photo 1: flickr, Photo 2 flickr
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