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The Story of the National Christmas Tree

Understanding the National Christmas Tree and its location?

The tradition of the National Christmas Tree began in 1923 with President Calvin Coolidge. The first tree, a 48-foot balsam fir from Vermont, was lit up with 2,500 electric bulbs in red, white, and green on the Ellipse outside the White House.

Over the years, the tree has evolved to become an iconic symbol of the holiday season in the United States. The National Christmas Tree is now part of a larger event known as the Pageant of Peace, where smaller trees representing the U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia are also displayed. The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is a beloved event that brings together people from across the country to celebrate the season.

The Story of the National Christmas Tree

 

Who is responsible for illuminating the National Christmas Tree?

The tradition of illuminating the National Christmas Tree is an honor bestowed upon the incumbent U.S. President. This ritual began with President Calvin Coolidge in 1923, who lit up the inaugural tree on Christmas Eve. Over the years, this tradition has been upheld by subsequent presidents, including George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush, who continued the practice among the people on the Ellipse. In some instances, the president is joined by young citizens, as was the case when Campfire Girl Whitney Symone Powell and Campfire Boy Joseph Sherren assisted in lighting the tree.

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What is the process for decorating the National Christmas Tree?

What is the process for decorating the National Christmas Tree?

 

a. The annual decoration theme

The annual decoration theme for the National Christmas Tree is a creative endeavor that involves many talented individuals. The task of designing and crafting the decorations is often given to artists from across the United States. In some years, the ornaments have been created by artists specially chosen by each U.S. state and territory to represent local culture and heritage. These artists pour their creativity and craftsmanship into each piece, creating unique and beautiful ornaments that reflect the year’s theme.

For instance, in 2020, the theme was “”American Treasures,”” and the ornaments depicted iconic American wildlife and landscapes. The National Park Service, which oversees the event, often collaborates with various organizations and schools to involve students and communities in the decoration process. The result is a stunning display of national unity and holiday spirit.

b. The individuals responsible for designing and crafting the decorations

Behind the scenes, a family-owned company, Hargrove Inc., has been entrusted with the responsibility of lighting the tree for over six decades. Additionally, individuals like George, a holiday lighting designer with GE Lighting, a Savant company, have spent years designing the National Christmas Tree’s holiday lighting.

Observing the National Christmas Tree Lighting

Observing the National Christmas Tree Lighting

 

Five essential dates to remember

– October 25: The free ticket lottery opens at 10 a.m. ET.

– November 1: The free ticket lottery closes at 10 a.m. ET.

– November 30: Witness the 100th lighting of the National Christmas Tree!

– December 2: The National Christmas Tree area is accessible to the public.

– December 11: CBS Network airs the broadcast at 8 p.m. ET.

Five essential dates to remember

 

The lottery for complimentary tickets

You can secure free tickets for the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony through an online lottery. The lottery, which opened on October 25 at 10 a.m. ET and closes on November 1 at 10 a.m. ET, can be accessed by visiting www.recreation.gov and clicking on “TICKET LOTTERY.” Alternatively, you can enter the lottery by calling 877-444-6777. The lottery results will be disclosed on November 8.

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The lottery for complimentary tickets

 

Guidelines for Visiting

Welcome to the National Christmas Tree this season! The Pathway of Peace and the National Christmas Tree are open to all, free of charge, from December 2 to January 1, 2023. Each evening at sunset, the National Christmas Tree and its surrounding 58 smaller trees illuminate, creating a breathtaking sight. Please note that the lights go off promptly at 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and at 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. When visiting, keep in mind the following guidelines to ensure a pleasant experience.

What to anticipate

Get ready to experience the awe-inspiring walkway encircling the National Christmas Tree. Delight in the sight of 58 trees symbolizing the 56 states and territories, alongside schools managed by the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Education and the Department of Defense Education Activity. These magnificent trees are adorned with one-of-a-kind ornaments crafted by talented students from each state, territory, and school system. As the sun sets, marvel at the magical illumination of the National Christmas Tree lights, which switch off promptly at 10:00 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and at 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.

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