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The National Christmas Tree: A Festive Icon of Washington, D.C.

Experience the magic of the National Christmas Tree, a holiday icon in Washington, D.C., surrounded by festive lights and the spirit of the season.

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The National Christmas Tree is a breathtaking tribute to the holiday spirit, located in the heart of Washington, D.C. This enchanting tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, serves as the centerpiece of the National Christmas Tree Festival, attracting visitors from around the world. Surrounded by beautifully decorated smaller trees representing each U.S. state, the National Christmas Tree offers a magical experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll through the festive grounds or capturing the perfect holiday photo, this iconic location is a must-visit for tourists during the holiday season.

A brief summary to National Christmas Tree

  • Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the evening to see the tree beautifully lit up.
  • Check the schedule for live performances during the holiday season.
  • Bring a camera for stunning holiday photos amidst the decorations.
  • Dress warmly as it can get quite chilly in December.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid large crowds.
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Getting There

  • Metro

    Start by making your way to the Rockville Metro Station, located at 30 Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850. From there, take the Red Line towards Glenmont. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. Transfer to the Yellow Line towards Greenbelt and ride for another 2 stops. At the L'Enfant Plaza station, switch to the Blue Line towards Franconia-Springfield. Finally, ride for 2 more stops and get off at the Smithsonian station. The National Christmas Tree is about a 10-minute walk from there.

  • Bus

    Head to the nearest bus stop on Maryland Ave and take the Ride On Bus Route 46 towards the Rockville Metro Station. Once you arrive at the Rockville Metro Station, transfer to the Red Line Metro towards Glenmont. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. From there, transfer to the Yellow Line towards Greenbelt. After 2 stops, get off at the L'Enfant Plaza station and transfer to the Blue Line towards Franconia-Springfield. Ride for 2 more stops and disembark at the Smithsonian station. The National Christmas Tree is a short 10-minute walk from there.

  • Walking

    If you are staying close to downtown Rockville, you can simply walk to the Rockville Metro Station. From there, take the Red Line Metro towards Glenmont. After about 30 minutes, get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. Transfer to the Yellow Line towards Greenbelt for 2 stops, then change to the Blue Line at L'Enfant Plaza towards Franconia-Springfield. After 2 stops, disembark at the Smithsonian station. From there, walk towards the National Mall, and follow the signs to the National Christmas Tree, which is about a 10-minute walk.

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Discover more about National Christmas Tree

The National Christmas Tree is a beloved holiday attraction located near the White House in Washington, D.C. Each year, this magnificent tree becomes a symbol of the holiday spirit, drawing thousands of visitors who come to admire its beauty and participate in festive activities. Standing tall and adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, the National Christmas Tree is surrounded by smaller trees that represent each of the 50 states, showcasing unique ornaments that reflect the culture and heritage of each state. This enchanting display creates a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. The tree lighting ceremony, typically held in early December, features live performances and is a highlight of the holiday season, marking the official start of the festivities in the nation’s capital. Visitors can enjoy walking through the National Christmas Tree area, which is beautifully landscaped and often filled with the sounds of holiday music. The tree is especially stunning at night when it is illuminated, making it a perfect spot for evening strolls and memorable photographs. Additionally, there are various holiday-themed events and activities hosted throughout the season that enhance the experience, including caroling, storytelling, and visits with Santa Claus. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the National Christmas Tree offers a festive and heartwarming experience that embodies the spirit of Christmas in Washington, D.C.

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