Christmas in Washington 2008

The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 4, 2008, 5 p.m. The White House Ellipse. Tickets are required. (202) 208-1631. Nationally known entertainers and a military band perform and the President brings a message of peace to the nation and the world.
National Christmas Tree and the Pageant of Peace
A Washington, DC Christmas Tradition

By Rachel Cooper, About.com
trees representing all 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia were planted surrounding the National Christmas Tree. Each year sponsoring organizations from each state provide tree decorations that are encased in a protective plastic globe to shield it from the weather.

See a Photo Gallery of the National Christmas Tree
National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is the beginning of a three week Washington, DC Christmas tradition. Nationally known entertainers and a military band perform and the President brings a message of peace to the nation and the world.

Date and Time: December 4, 2008, 5 p.m.

Location: The Ellipse near The White House
See a map

Tickets: The National Park Service distributes free tickets on a first-come first served basis, on 2008

Ticket date to be Announced, beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion near the corner of 15th and E Streets, NW, just southeast of the White House grounds. A maximum of four tickets are issued per person. Tickets are required for every attendee, including children.
Visit the National Christmas Tree Throughout the Holiday Season
The National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace is illuminated each evening after the lighting ceremony from dusk until 11 p.m. through January 1st. Musical performances by volunteer choirs and dancers, will be held nightly on the Ellipse stage from December 8-23, 2007. Weeknight performances will be performed from 6-8:30 p.m. Weekend performances will be performed from 4-8:30 p.m. For further information or scheduled groups performing call (202) 208-1631. Tickets are only required for the lighting ceremony.
Parking Near the National Christmas Tree
Parking is extremely limited near the National Christmas Tree. Limited parking is available along Constitution Avenue between 15th and 17th Streets after 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and all day on weekends. The best way to get to the area is by metro. The closest stops are Metro Center, Federal Triangle, and McPherson Square.

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Add a Comment

Comment by Jackie D on November 13, 2008 at 1:01pm

I'm kind of wondering how to get the tickets also. I live 6 hours away but my daughter is there so I don't know if she would be able to pick them up for me. Can anyone help with this information? Thanks

Comment by Judy (Tom's mom) on November 9, 2008 at 2:29pm

I've never attending the lighting, but I have gone down after the event and looked at the tree and the trees for the states. It's an awesome beautiful display and I would encourage anyone within driving distance to go and see it.

Comment by T's mom on October 28, 2008 at 9:33pm

Wow what a sight that would be.maybe some day I can attend,

Comment by janet on October 19, 2008 at 7:42pm

does anyone have any info on tickets for this event? I need a total of 4 and obviously can not drive 6 hours to wait in line on a first come first serve basis. Can anyone help?