News Release

Ring in the holiday season at the 97th National Christmas Tree Lighting

Finale of the 2018 National Christmas Tree Lighting in President’s Park.

NPS Photo/R. Hendrix

News Release Date: October 16, 2019

Contact: Katie Liming, 202-619-7156

Contact: Alanna Sobel, 202-796-2538

‘Tis the season to make your holiday plans! Make the National Christmas Tree Lighting in our nation’s capital part of your family’s 2019 celebration. This year’s event takes place on Thursday, Dec. 5 on the Ellipse in President’s Park (one of America’s 419 national parks!). You can enter to win tickets through a free online lottery. The lottery closes at 10 a.m. EDT on Oct. 21.

Presented by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, this beloved American tradition is celebrating its 97th year. The celebration features a countdown to the official lighting of the National Christmas Tree, live musical performances by local and national performers and more!  

The National Christmas Tree is a living tree, which can be seen year-round in President’s Park. Fifty-six smaller trees surrounding the National Christmas Tree will feature one-of-a-kind ornaments created by students in every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia. President Calvin Coolidge first celebrated the National Christmas Tree Lighting in 1923. The ceremony today inspires visitors and viewers from around the globe to #FindYourPark/#EncuentraTuParque during the holiday season.

Enter for your chance to win tickets to the 2019 National Christmas Tree Lighting. Those without computer access may call 877-444-6777 to enter the lottery. Lottery applicants will be notified on Nov. 4.