Background

The National Christmas Tree: A Holiday Wonderland

Experience the magic of the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C., a spectacular celebration of the holiday spirit and a must-visit for every tourist.

4

The National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C. is a dazzling symbol of holiday spirit, beautifully adorned and surrounded by spectacular decorations. This iconic landmark attracts visitors from across the nation and beyond, making it a must-see for anyone during the festive 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 illuminated in all its glory.
  • Check the schedule for special events and performances during the holiday season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to stroll around the surrounding park.
  • Bring your camera for unforgettable holiday photos against the backdrop of the tree.
  • Plan to visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From Waldorf, you can take the Charles County Transit bus (Route 1) towards Washington, DC. Board the bus at the Waldorf West Shopping Center stop. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the 'Branch Ave Metro Station' stop. Here, transfer to the Metro Green Line towards Greenbelt. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at the 'Gallery Place-Chinatown' station. From there, transfer to the Yellow Line towards Huntington and get off at the 'L'Enfant Plaza' station. Finally, walk about 15 minutes northwest to the National Christmas Tree located at 15th St NW and E St NW.

  • Metro

    If you prefer to take the Metro, start by taking the Charles County Transit bus (Route 1) from Waldorf to the 'Branch Ave Metro Station'. Once at the Metro station, purchase a SmarTrip card and take the Green Line towards Greenbelt. After about 30 minutes, switch trains at 'Gallery Place-Chinatown' to the Yellow Line towards Huntington. Ride for an additional 4 stops and get off at 'L'Enfant Plaza'. From this station, the National Christmas Tree is a 15-minute walk northwest. Head towards 15th St NW and E St NW.

  • Walking

    If you are in Waldorf and would like to experience a walk, first take the Charles County Transit bus (Route 1) to the 'Branch Ave Metro Station'. Once you arrive at the station, take the Metro Green Line to 'Gallery Place-Chinatown'. After switching to the Yellow Line towards Huntington and getting off at 'L'Enfant Plaza', exit the station and walk northwest for about 15 minutes. Follow the signs to 15th St NW and E St NW; you will see the National Christmas Tree at the end of this route.

Unlock the Best of National Christmas Tree

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about National Christmas Tree

The National Christmas Tree, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., is a breathtaking symbol of holiday cheer that captivates tourists and locals alike. Each year, this iconic tree is beautifully adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and ornaments, attracting visitors from all over the country. The tree stands majestically on the Ellipse, just a stone's throw from the White House, making it a perfect backdrop for festive photos. Surrounding the National Christmas Tree are 56 smaller trees, each representing a U.S. state and territory, creating a stunning display that showcases the nation's diversity and spirit. Visiting the National Christmas Tree is a delightful experience, particularly during the holiday season when the tree is illuminated in a dazzling array of colors. The lighting ceremony, typically held in early December, draws large crowds and features live performances by various artists, adding to the festive atmosphere. This event marks the official start of the holiday season in the capital and is a cherished tradition for many. The nearby Pathway of Peace, lined with the state trees, provides a charming walking route for visitors, allowing them to soak in the holiday spirit while enjoying the beautiful park setting. As you explore the area, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos and enjoy the seasonal decorations that adorn the park. The National Christmas Tree is not just a tree, but a vibrant celebration of community, hope, and joy during the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you're visiting D.C. for the first time or returning for the holidays, this enchanting landmark is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time in the nation’s capital.

Popular Experiences near National Christmas Tree

Popular Hotels near National Christmas Tree

Select Currency