Discover the National Christmas Tree: America’s Iconic Holiday Symbol

Every year, millions gather to celebrate the National Christmas Tree, a majestic symbol of the holiday season that embodies warmth, tradition, and national pride.

Located on the South Lawn of the White House, the National Christmas Tree stands as a living tradition since 1923. Designated by presidential decree, this evergreen centerpiece marks the official start of the holiday season, drawing visitors and dignitaries alike. Its lighting ceremony, steeped in history, unites communities in celebration and reflects the enduring spirit of Christmas across generations.

Each National Christmas Tree is carefully selected and cultivated to represent resilience and beauty. Typically a noble fir, its height and lush green canopy symbolize hope and renewal. The tree’s lighting—often attended by the President and first family—features festive decorations and heartfelt messages, turning the event into a powerful moment of national unity and shared joy.

Over a century of tradition surrounds the National Christmas Tree, evolving yet remaining deeply rooted in American culture. From early lighting ceremonies under the glowing lights to modern community events, the tradition continues to inspire new generations. It serves as both a historical landmark and a living symbol of togetherness during the holiday season.

The National Christmas Tree is more than a decoration—it’s a beacon of holiday cheer and national identity. As communities gather beneath its branches, the tree reminds us of enduring values and shared moments. Experience the magic this season by learning more about its legacy and celebrating the spirit of Christmas with others.

National Christmas Tree National Christmas Tree lighting event, 2023. NPS / Kelsey Graczyk About the National Christmas Tree The beloved tradition of the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony began Christmas Eve in 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit a 48-foot Balsam Fir from Vermont decorated with 2,500 red, white, and green electric. The 2025 National Christmas Tree was a 35 foot red spruce from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest in Virginia.

The 2025 National Christmas Tree lighting was Thursday, December 4, 2025. For information on how to watch the event, visit thenationaltree.org. Student ornament display at the National Christmas Tree site (2025).

National Tree Company has wide range of artificial Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands as well as holiday decorations. We offer a line of artificial bushes and topiaries that are as beautiful as they are realistic. Our Seasonal category product line include decorative pieces for display in Spring, Fall and year round.

The National Christmas Tree is a large evergreen tree located in the northeast quadrant of the Ellipse near the White House in Washington, D.C. Each year since 1923, the tree has been decorated as a Christmas tree. Every year, early in December, the tree is traditionally lit by the president and first lady of the United States.

Every holiday season, The National Christmas Tree is decorated with thousands of lights and unique decorations. The tree stands as a daily reminder of the holiday spirit and of this cherished national tradition. Several days after the lighting ceremony through January 1, the grounds open to the public.

The lights are typically on from sunset until 10:00 pm Sunday-Thursday and until 11:00 pm. The National Christmas Tree is located on the Ellipse at The White House and President's Park and can be viewed by the public beginning December 6. The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 4 in President's Park in Washington, D.C.

Tickets are required. at the National Park Service's website. The National Christmas Tree is often measured in numbers.

Over 13,000 feet (or 2.5 miles) of lights strung end-to-end, 63,750 individual LED bulbs, and. Each December the National Christmas Tree on the White House Ellipse is dressed in holiday splendor as a beacon of beauty and brilliance. Learn how you can visit the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C., and explore it's rich history.

For almost 100 years, the National Christmas Tree has been an institution in the United States' celebration of Christmas. Every year, a large, decorated evergreen tree placed or planted somewhere within spitting distance of the White House and lit by the president himself becomes the centerpiece of.