National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, 2021

This photograph was taken by Thomas Goertel on December 2, 2021, at the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the Ellipse. This photograph was taken shortly after President Joseph R. Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden lit the National Christmas Tree. The 2021 National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony was hosted by rapper and actor LL Cool J and featured performances by Billy Porter, Chris Stapleton, H.E.R., Juanes, Keb Mo, Kristin Chenoweth, Maren Morris, and Patti LaBelle. The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is a cherished holiday tradition in Washington, D.C. When President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree in 1923, the celebration attracted more than 6,000 spectators. The opening ceremony and nightly holiday concerts have annually drawn hundreds of attendees.