Dazzling Display: 2023 National Christmas Tree Lights Up Washington!
The 2023 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a centerpiece of America’s holiday celebrations, was a spectacular event that not only continued a beloved tradition but also showcased a brilliant array of talent and holiday spirit.
Lighting Up the Holiday Season
President Joe Biden, alongside First Lady Jill Biden, led the festivities by lighting the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park on November 30, 2023. This significant event, observed annually since first celebrated by President Calvin Coolidge in 1923, symbolizes the start of the holiday season across the United States. Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff also graced the occasion with their presence. The ceremony included remarks from Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, highlighting the significance of this annual tradition.
A New Tree for a Time-Honored Tradition
In a notable change, 2023 saw the replacement of the National Christmas Tree. The previous tree, planted in 2021, was removed due to a fungal disease. In an unprecedented collaboration between the National Park Service (NPS) and the USDA Forest Service, a 40-foot Norway spruce from Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia was selected as the new National Christmas Tree. This is the first time a cut tree has been used since before 1973, with the NPS considering whether to continue this practice or return to planting a new tree for future celebrations.
Star-Studded Musical Extravaganza
The lighting ceremony was further brightened by a constellation of musical stars. Hosted by Mickey Guyton, an acclaimed country artist, the event featured performances from a diverse group of musicians. Darren Criss, Samara Joy, Ledisi, Reneé Rapp, St. Vincent, Joe Walsh, and Dionne Warwick all took to the stage, delighting the audience with their exceptional talents. This lineup not only entertained but also represented a wide spectrum of musical genres and styles.
An Open Invitation to Celebrate
The National Christmas Tree and 58 smaller trees, representing the states and territories of the U.S., will be on display from December 2, 2023, through January 1, 2024. The public is welcome to visit and experience the holiday magic, with the lights turning on near sunset each evening. This opportunity offers a chance for people to engage in the holiday spirit and create lasting memories.
The National Park Foundation’s Role
The National Park Foundation (NPF), in partnership with the NPS, played a pivotal role in the event. The Foundation, dedicated to preserving and enhancing America’s national parks, supports various initiatives from wildlife and landscape conservation to educational and cultural programs. Their involvement in the National Christmas Tree Lighting is just one of the many ways they contribute to the nation’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Broadcast of the Ceremony
For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony was broadcasted by CBS on December 15, 2023, and made available for streaming on Paramount+. This ensured that the joy and excitement of the event reached a wider audience, spreading the festive cheer far and wide.
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony of 2023 was not just a display of lights and music; it was a celebration of tradition, community, and the start of a joyous season. It reminded us of the shared values and joys that unite us, marking the beginning of a season filled with hope, generosity, and warmth.
