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President and Dr. Biden at the 2021 National Christmas Tree Lighting

This photograph was taken by Thomas Goertel on December 2, 2021, during the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the Ellipse. Here, President Joseph R. Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden stand near a podium prior to the lighting of the National Christmas Tree; rapper and actor LL Cool J, who served as host at the event, stands near them on the stage at right. The 2021 National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony 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.
Photographer
Thomas Goertel
Date of Work
December 2, 2021
Type
Photograph
Credit
Photo by Thomas Goertel for the White House Historical Association
View in the Digital Library

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