Trump and Melania usher in holiday season with lighting of National Christmas tree: Live
Trump kicks off holiday season with religious speech: ‘Christians everywhere rejoice’
- President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump inaugurated the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Thursday evening.
- The 35-foot red spruce, sourced from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, was lit at The Ellipse, marking the start of the holiday season.
- The ceremony featured musical performances by artists including The Beach Boys and Alana Springsteen, with the tree opening to the public from Saturday, December 6.
- During his speech, Trump paid tribute to two National Guard members who were shot in D.C. before Thanksgiving, one of whom died.
- Trump delivered a religious address, highlighting Christian values and referencing the miracle of Bethlehem, consistent with his administration's focus on such values.