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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
President's Park (White House)President Carter and his daughter, Amy, lit the 1977 National Christmas Tree
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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?
In 1951, “The Day The Earth Stood Still” was filmed in President's Park. The story was about an alien emissary and his massive robot land a spaceship on the Ellipse and search for governmental and scientific leaders who will accept the warning he has brought from space.

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Last Updated: January 10, 2008 at 14:16 EST