List of sources of the National Christmas Tree (United States) facts for kids

The National Christmas Tree is a very special holiday tradition in the United States. Every year, a beautiful Christmas tree is chosen to stand near the White House in Washington, D.C. This tradition started way back in 1923. That year, President Calvin Coolidge lit the very first National Christmas Tree. Since then, this festive event has happened every single year without missing one.

Over the years, these trees have come from many different places across the country. They have also been placed in various spots around the President's Park or the White House grounds. Sometimes, the tree is a "cut" tree, meaning it's cut down and brought to Washington. Other times, it's a "living" tree, which means it's planted and grows right there. The height of these trees has also changed a lot over time!

The National Christmas Tree: A Special Tradition

The idea of a National Christmas Tree began in 1923. President Calvin Coolidge was the first to light it. This event marks the start of the holiday season in the nation's capital. It brings people together to celebrate.

Cut Trees or Living Trees?

The National Christmas Tree has been both a cut tree and a living tree.

• From 1924 to 1953, and again from 1973 until now, a living tree has been used. These trees are planted and continue to grow.
• In 1923, and then from 1954 to 1972, a cut evergreen tree was chosen. These trees were brought to Washington, D.C., for the holiday season.

When it's a cut tree, its height is measured when it stands tall at the White House. For a living tree, its height is measured when it is first planted.

Where Do the Trees Come From?

The National Christmas Trees have come from many different states and territories across the United States. This shows the variety of beautiful trees found all over the country. For example, trees have come from Vermont, New York, Colorado, and even Washington, D.C. itself!

Where the Trees Have Stood

The National Christmas Tree has been placed in several important locations around the White House.

• The Ellipse: This is a large grassy area just south of the White House. Most of the recent trees have been placed here.
• Sherman Plaza: This area is a patio and garden near the Treasury Building. Some early trees stood here.
• Lafayette Park: This square is located north of the White House. A few trees were placed here in the past.
• South Lawn of the White House: This is the large lawn directly south of the White House building. Some living trees were planted here for a time.

Over the years, different types of trees have been chosen. These include Balsam fir, Norway spruce, Blue spruce, Fraser fir, Red cedar, Oriental spruce, White spruce, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, Red spruce, Red fir, and White fir. Each type of tree adds its own unique beauty to the holiday display.

Images for kids

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  The 2010 National Christmas Tree, located on the north end of the Ellipse, just south of the White House.

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  The 2012 National Christmas Tree on November 2, 2012, six days after it was planted.