News Release

2018 National Christmas Tree Lighting Celebrates the Season with Favorite Holiday Tunes Through the Decades

Date: November 8, 2018
Contact: Katie Liming, 202-619-7156

WASHINGTON—Taking the audience on a walk down memory lane, the 96^th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting promises to be unforgettable with exciting and fun renditions of favorite holiday tunes from the 1920s through today. Co-presented by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, this beloved American tradition also features special guests and the official lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse in President’s Park (White House).

2018 performers include Abby Anderson, Anthony Kearns, Dominican Sisters of Mary a.k.a. “Caroling Angels,” Gabby Barrett, LOCASH, Matthew West, Paul Cardall, Spensha Baker, Thompson Square, and the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own."

Thanks to a partnership with the National Park Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, Ovation and REELZ will broadcast the 2018 National Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 2 at 10 p.m. EST. The broadcast offers a wonderful opportunity for friends and families across the country to tune in and rejoice in this holiday tradition together.

First celebrated in 1923 by President Calvin Coolidge, the ceremony today inspires visitors and viewers from around the globe to #FindYourPark/#EncuentraTuParque during the holiday season.

The National Christmas Tree is a living Colorado blue spruce from Virginia, which can be seen year-round in President’s Park. Thanks to a partnership with the National Park Foundation, GE Lighting is celebrating its 56th year of decorating the National Christmas Tree.

Fifty-six smaller trees surrounding the National Christmas Tree will feature one-of-a-kind ornaments, representing every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia.