The free ticket lottery for the 96th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting is opening October 18th. Co-presented by the National Park Service and National Park Foundation, the tree lighting is a timeless tradition that brings everyone together to celebrate and reflect on favorite holiday memories. The ceremony features live musical performances and the official lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse at President’s Park (White House).
This year, the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on November 28. Free tickets will be awarded through an online lottery, which opens at 10 a.m. EDT on October 18 and closes at 10 a.m. EDT on October 22. To enter the lottery visit www.recreation.gov and click the ‘TICKET LOTTERY’ link. Those without computer access may call 877-444-6777 to enter the lottery. Lottery winners will be notified on October 29.
This year marks the 96th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting, 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. 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.
Photos by Frank Gruber
