• View of the White House's north side from Layfatte Park

    President's Park (White House)

    District of Columbia

People

As you explore these pages, we hope you discover something that surprises you. We invite you to learn more about history of the National Christmas Tree.
 
 
Despite the United States' entrance into World War II in early December 1941, the east Oriental spruce tree on the White House South Lawn was lit on Christmas Even by President Franklin D. Roosevelt from the South Portico. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, on the President's right, was invited by the President to speak to the crowd. (Photo by Franklin D. Roosevelt Library)

Franklin D. Roosevelt Library

Despite the United States' entrance into World War II in early December 1941, the east Oriental spruce tree on the White House South Lawn was lit on Christmas Even by President Franklin D. Roosevelt from the South Portico. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, on the President's right, was invited by the President to speak to the crowd.

Lighting of the National Christmas Tree History
Written by C.L. Arbelbide
(January 6, 2001)
 
 
The first National Christmas Tree, lit on December 24, 1923, in the middle of the Ellipse. The Washington Monument is seen in the background.

Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division

The first "National Christmas Tree," lit on December 24, 1923, in the middle of the Ellipse. The Washington Monument is seen in the background.

History of the National Christmas Trees
Written by Laura Schiavo
(1997)

Did You Know?

Franklin Pierce, 14th President: 1853-1857

Franklin Pierce was the first president to introduce the Christmas tree to the White House in 1856 for a group of Washington Sunday School children.