The Kennedy Center to Host First Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Kennedy Center, a prominent cultural hub along the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., is set to hold its inaugural Christmas tree and lighting ceremony in December. This event, timed for December 17, marks a new chapter for the center as it embraces Christmas-focused festivities.

“This first-ever Christmas tree lighting is significant for the center and shines a light on one of Washington’s beloved holiday traditions,” shared Roman Dalavi, the Kennedy Center’s vice president of communications. He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the USDA Forest Service, which has provided a beautiful red spruce sourced from the lofty mountains of the southern Appalachians. The aim is to foster new holiday traditions for families and visitors alike.

The tree, standing 18 feet tall, comes from the George Washington National Forest and Jefferson National Forest in southern Virginia. The upcoming ceremony promises to be interactive, inviting families and guests to enjoy Christmas entertainment, along with greetings from Kennedy Center leaders and other notable figures.

The Kennedy Center described this ceremony as a historic occasion, one that will form a new holiday tradition in the heart of the nation’s capital. While the center has hosted various Christmas events in the past, it had faced criticism during the Trump administration for several non-traditional performances at different times of the year. This year’s programming includes events centered on the birth of Jesus, with various religious observances, such as concerts featuring live Nativity scenes.

“We are delighted to present a meaningful, faith-centric experience for families, one that connects deeply with the story of Christmas,” said Dharavi, discussing the forthcoming productions. “It’s about making cherished memories and celebrating the sacred,” he noted.

Kennedy Center Director Richard Grenell emphasized a commitment to showcasing traditional, Christ-focused holiday events. Recently, he aimed to usher in what he called a “golden age of the arts” at the center, which has faced challenges in achieving profitability after struggling financially for some time.