In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge walked from the White House to the Ellipse to light a 48-foot fir tree decorated with 2,500 electric bulbs in red, white and green, as a local choir and a “quartet” from the U.S. Marine Band performed. Decades later, this American holiday tradition continues to bring citizens together to share in a message of hope and peace.

The Pathway of Peace and the National Christmas Tree are free to visit. The walkway surrounding the National Christmas Tree features 58 trees representing the 56 states and territories. The trees are uniquely decorated with ornaments designed by students. The National Christmas Tree lights turn on around sunset each evening and turn off promptly at 10: pm Sunday-Thursday and 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.