National Christmas Tree

The National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC is a must-see during the holidays. Free tickets are required (via lottery) for the lighting ceremony held each December. After the main event, walk the Pathway of Peace, featuring smaller trees decorated for every U.S. state, territory, and Washington, DC. A beautiful tradition that brings the whole country together in holiday spirit!

Title: National Christmas Tree: A Holiday Letdown? Review: I recently visited the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C., filled with anticipation, only to leave somewhat underwhelmed. The tree itself is relatively small and modestly decorated—hardly the showstopper one might expect for such a prestigious location. Surrounding it are smaller trees representing U.S. states and territories, which, while symbolic, add little to the overall appeal. A nativity scene is also present, but it feels rather basic and lacks the charm to elevate the experience. The setting—a green yard behind the White House—offers a distant view of this iconic residence, but even that isn’t enough to justify a special trip. It might be worth a quick stop if you're curious or already nearby. However, if you're expecting the grandeur of a world-class Christmas tree, you may be disappointed. You can save your time for other festive attractions in the city.

It's worth checking out every year, but understand that some years will inevitably be better or worse than other years. They have the main tree but also a tree for each state (and possibly territory and a few other notable places/ entities). Obviously, it's better to see at night, but it's still cool to see the handmade ornaments from around the states during the day.

Good to stop by if you're already in the area. Cute tree, well lit and we'll decorated but there's nothing special to really make it stand out. There's smaller trees for each state around it with decorations, but at night it's really hard to see any of the ornaments or signs.

At least the tree is planted and not cut just for the season. Other places should follow this example (Rockefeller center, NY). Note: The tree does get replaced if needed, e.g. in case of disease. The smaller trees are nice, too. Some of the ornaments are a bit odd, though, a few said "Lunatic Asylum".

It was exceptional. I wasn't in the Christmas spirit when I went. And this whole set up just kickstarted my heart. I loved the smaller trees for each state. I went back and was thrilled again. This is definitely a new tradition. Please, if you are in DC during the Christmas season, take time to bring your scooter rental in front of the white house and check out our national tree. Obviously you'll have to go after dusk. The lights are what make it so beautiful.

Really disappointing. I’ve seen better Christmas trees in department stores. The trees of all 50 states and various territories was nice but the exhibit they have every year at the Durham museum in Omaha easily eclipses this and outside of Rockefeller Center the best Christmas display I’ve ever seen. If you’re in DC and it’s within walking distance check it out, but don’t waste a metro ride or uber fare.

Around the national Christmas tree.. there are many small states Christmas trees. It is an open area with a small shop for Christmas decoration items. You can see the back side of the White House from here clearly.