Pre-Show at the 2019 National Christmas Tree Lighting

This photograph was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on December 5, 2019, during the pre-show of the 97th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Here, WUSA9 News morning anchor Annie Yu and National Park Service interpreter Kyle Yarusso speak with Col. Jason K. Fettig, director of the United States Marine Band. The Marine Band accompanied the singers at the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, and also performed instrumental renditions of classic holiday tunes. When asked by Yarusso of his favorite holiday song, Fettig mentioned the classic "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson, and proceeded in leading the Marine Band in a brisk and upbeat arrangement, complete with the sound effects of a wooden slapstick. The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is a cherished holiday tradition in Washington, D.C., and it has always been associated with music. When President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree in 1923, the United States Marine Band performed at the event, and the celebration attracted more than 6,000 spectators. The opening ceremony and nightly holiday concerts have annually drawn hundreds of attendees.