National Christmas Tree

The illuminated National Christmas Tree has been a Washington, DC, tradition since 1923. Since, 1978 the same live tree, a Colorado Blue Spruce planted on the Ellipse, has served as the official National Christmas Tree. The President switches on the tree lights in a ceremony held in early December. The illuminated tree and accompanying Pageant of Peace remain on display until New Years Day. Visiting the illuminated tree at night is a popular holiday activity for area residents.

Around the national Christmas Tree are 56 smaller decorated trees representing the states, territories, and the District of Columbia. Decorations are made by volunteer organizations in each location and sent to be placed on the trees. Nearby are Santa’s Workshop, a Nativity Scene, and Ye Olde Yule Log. (The burning Yule Log, consisting of wood from hazardous trees cut on national park land is always popular. On a cold December night it’s a place to warm up from a stroll around the trees!) A variety of music and dance groups perform every night until Christmas.

Nearby is the National Menorah, illuminated during the Chanukah holiday.

When visiting Washing during December, a visit to President’s Park to see the illuminated displays is an enjoyable way to celebrate the season. (You can also visit during the daytime for a pleasant walk among the trees.)

Every year for nearly the past four decades Congress has invited one of the national forests to provide the Christmas tree on the lawn of the Capitol building.
This year the 78-foot tree came from the Bitterroot National Forest in Montana. It is a subalpine fir.
The ornaments covering the tree are handmade and reflect the spirit of Montana (the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, the generousity of her people). I especially liked a little snowman hanging near the bottom.
The tree is easy to access even with some of the lawn blocked off for construction related to the upcoming inaugaration. In fact the hard part is not getting near the tree but rather getting a clear picture of just the tree and no tourists!