National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service: U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
 
 
Support the National Park Service
President's Park (White House)President Carter and his daughter, Amy, lit the 1977 National Christmas Tree
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
President's Park (White House)
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)
Lafayette Park (NPS Photo by J. Feeney)  

Did You Know?
The land that comprises Lafayette Park had been used as a race track, a showplace for caged animals, a graveyard, a slave market, and an encampment for soldiers, as well as for many political protests and celebrations that continue today.

Disclaimer Accessibility Privacy Policy FOIA Notices USA.gov

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