National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2024 in Washington, D.C.

Since the 1920s the National Christmas Tree Lighting has become one of the major holiday season attractions in Washington. The living tree is decorated in the northeast quadrant of The Ellipse near the White House. Every President since Franklin D. Roosevelt has flipped the switch and given a speech at the ceremony. The lighting scheme of the tree is especially beautiful. CNN in 2013 called the National Christmas Tree the sixth most beautiful Christmas tree in the world. The ceremony features many popular performers as well as young talents.

Performers

Over the years, the event has featured renowned artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Tony Bennett, who brought their amazing voices to the festive occasion. Pop stars such as Justin Bieber and Carrie Underwood have also graced the stage. Iconic performances by singers like Mariah Carey, known for her holiday classics, have made the event even more memorable. Meanwhile, country music legends like Brad Paisley and Darius Rucker have added a unique touch of Americana. Each year, the lineup reflects a rich tapestry of musical genres, showcasing both legendary talents and emerging artists against the stunning backdrop of the National Christmas Tree.

National Christmas Tree Ornaments

Every year, ordinary people all over America make unique ornaments and decorations for the National Christmas Tree. These one-of-a-kind ornaments represent every U.S. territory, state, and the District of Columbia. Many artists show off their creativity and talents to design decorations that illustrate the history, culture, and heritage of the United States. These works of art makeup America Celebrates display, surrounding the National Christmas Tree.

Tickets

The ceremony is free, but tickets are required for entry and are distributed via a lottery system to ensure fairness. To acquire tickets for the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, attendees must go to the National Park Service website (recreation.gov), where tickets are typically made available in early November. Interested individuals can apply for tickets during the designated lottery period, which is announced on the website and through official social media channels. It’s essential to check these resources regularly, as demand is high, and securing a spot can be competitive.