American Christmas Traditions

Tell Us About Christmas Where You Live.
Christmas at the White House The National Christmas Tree, holiday exhibits and smaller trees representing all the state and territories will remain decorated and lighted daily (sunset to 11 p.m.) from December 9, 1999 through January 1, 2000 into the New Year, New Millennium. The annual month-long Pageant of Peace, which begins on December 9, with the lighting of the National Christmas tree by President Clinton, on the Ellipse, just south of the White House. The annual event will be celebrated outdoors on the Ellipse, south of the White House. Guest artists include singer Wayne Newton, world reowned soprano Renee Fleming, the cast of Chicago, country western singer Marty Stuart and NBC's Today Al Roker as Santa Claus. D.C.'s own Urban Nation directed by Rickey Payton has been selected as this year's youth choir and the entire show will be accompanied by the "President's Own," Marine Band, directed by Colonel Timothy Foley. Detailed information is available from the National Park Service at (202) 208-1631. The Tree lighting tradition began on Christmas Eve, 1923, when President Calvin Coolidge 'pushed the button' lighting the first 'national' Christmas tree, erected on the Ellipse, south of the White House. Overtime the events has involved civic associations, corporate donors, the National Park Service and the White House. Every succeeding President has participated in the lighting ceremony at least once and expressed a holiday wish to all American citizens.
Tell Santa About Christmas Where You Live.
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