Located on the lawn of the White House, the National Christmas Tree is a live 40-foot Colorado blue spruce that was transplanted from York, Pennsylvania 81 years ago.
Since then, the White House has held a tradition of lighting the National Christmas Tree. In 1954, 56 smaller Christmas trees representing the 50 states, 5 territories, and the District of Columbia were planted surrounding the National Christmas Tree. This was titled "The Pathway of Peace." Each year different organizations from each state provide tree decorations for the Pathway of Peace to present a unified kaleidoscope of enchanting holiday splendor.
Each December evening, at dusk, the National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace are illuminated until 11 p.m. Musical groups from the Washington, DC area entertain visitors at the Ellipse throughout the holiday season.
Events at National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC
