The 2009 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony The ceremony is a time-honored holiday tradition which includes the illumination of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse just south of the White House. Nationally known entertainers and the United States Marine Corps Band add to the celebratory evening in which the President is invited to bring a message of peace to the nation and the world. With the White House as the back drop, in what becomes the "Christmas Pathway of Peace", the National Christmas Tree and 56 smaller trees - one for each state, five territories, and the District of Columbia - serve as the event focal point.

The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony seasonal displays include a Yule log and a large-scale model train. For the 15th consecutive year, the National Christmas Tree Railroad will provide model trains that surround the base of the National Christmas Tree. Beginning December 15, 2009, the trains will run from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily through January 1, 2010.

The seasonal displays this year will also include a Santa's Workshop sponsored by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The Workshop will be open at select times for children to visit with Santa.

In what becomes the "Christmas Pathway of Peace", the National Christmas Tree and 56 smaller trees - one for each state, five territories, and the District of Columbia - serve as the focal point. All 57 trees will be lit each evening at dusk until 11:00 p.m. and will be lit each night through January 1, 2010. Volunteer organizations in each state provide the tree decorations and each decoration is encased in a protective plastic globe to shield it from the weather.