Every holiday season, the National Christmas Tree is decorated with thousands of lights and unique decorations, standing as a daily reminder of the holiday spirit and this cherished national tradition. The annual lighting ceremony  one of the most iconic holiday events in the country  takes place in early December at the Ellipse just south of the White House, hosted by the President of the United States and featuring live musical performances by some of America’s best-loved artists. Several days after the lighting ceremony through January 1, the grounds open to the public, with each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia represented by a uniquely decorated tree surrounding the main National Christmas Tree. Each year, one-of-a-kind ornaments are made by Americans representing every U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia as part of the annual America Celebrates display. A tradition celebrating over 100 years, this is one of Washington DC’s most magical and unmissable holiday experiences.