The
new National Christmas Tree is settling into its new place just south
of the White House. President Obama and his family officially marked the
start of the Christmas season by lighting the tree at a ceremony just
after dark last night. The 26-foot Colorado blue spruce was planted in
March on the Ellipse, a park that lies between the White House and the
National Mall. Strong winds in February toppled the previous tree, which
stood in the park since 1978. The lighting ceremony, hosted by Carson
Daly, included performances of Christmas carols and tunes b Big Time
Rush, Ellie Goulding, OneRepupblic, Rodney Atkins and the United States
Air Force, among others. The ceremony marks the 89th holiday tree
lighting. The tradition began with President Coolidge in 1923.
