National Christmas Tree (United States)

The National Christmas Tree is a seasonal evergreen display set on the Ellipse in President’s Park, Washington, D.C., presented annually with a public lighting ceremony. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century.

The central decorated tree is surrounded by the Pathway of Peace, a circuit of smaller trees decorated to represent U.S. states, territories, and organizations, creating a festive outdoor exhibit. The annual lighting is accompanied by performances and speeches and draws visitors to the presidential park area during the holiday season.

The ceremonial lighting of a national tree began in the 1920s and evolved into a formal public event with musical and civic components. The site on the Ellipse has been the long-standing location for the display and ceremony.

Placed on the Ellipse within President’s Park just south of the White House in central Washington, D.C., the display is easily reached from the National Mall and surrounding downtown areas.

• Origins: First established as a national tradition in 1923, the tree and ceremony have been held annually in most years since then.
• Lighting ceremony: The lighting event is a public ceremony often accompanied by musical performances and official guests; security and access rules apply on event day.

What to See #

• The Ellipse: The Ellipse in President's Park, immediately south of the White House, is the site of the main tree and the annual public lighting ceremony.
• Pathway of Peace: The Pathway of Peace is a ring of smaller decorated trees representing U.S. states and territories that line the walkway around the main tree during the holiday display.