News Release
News Release Date: October 19, 2026
National Park Service: NCR_Communications@nps.gov
National Park Foundation: media@nationalparks.org
WASHINGTON - The National Park Service and National Park Foundation invite people across the country to enter the free ticket lottery for the 2026 National Christmas Tree Lighting at The White House and President’s Park. The ceremony will take place Dec. 3 on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C.
The lottery will open at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 28 and close at 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Enter online at National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Recreation.gov. There is no charge to enter the lottery or receive tickets.
Lottery winners will be notified on Thursday, Nov. 12. Each winner may receive up to five tickets. Entering the lottery does not guarantee tickets. Tickets are free and may not be sold or transferred for commercial gain.
For more than a century, the National Christmas Tree Lighting has brought people together beneath the winter sky at the White House and President’s Park. The National Christmas Tree Lighting will celebrate sounds of the season and the spirit of our nation through live performances, holiday music and the shared joy of the season.
The tradition began in 1923. Today, the National Park Service and National Park Foundation proudly carry it forward, welcoming families and friends from across the country to celebrate the sounds, traditions and spirit of the holiday season together.
Ticket holders will receive additional information about arrival, accessibility, security screening and prohibited items before the ceremony. Event information and updates will be available at thenationaltree.org and nps.gov/whho.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service
Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of America’s national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with millions of people every year. Learn more at nps.gov.
About the National Park Foundation
The National Park Foundation is the nation’s most trusted way for people to support America’s national parks. We work with the National Park Service and partners across the country to fund priority projects that keep parks strong, relevant, and accessible. This work helps ensure parks continue to inspire pride across the country and offer experiences that create meaningful connection. In 2025, NPF funded $100 million in on-the-ground priority projects nationwide, made possible through the generosity of donors, to advance critical work, including infrastructure, restoration, education, and access, ensuring parks continue to endure for generations to come. Learn more at nationalparks.org.
Last updated: October 19, 2026