Live Broadcast: Trump and first lady join National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony

President Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, will take part in the traditional National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on Thursday evening. The event will feature musical performances by Alana Springsteen, Brett Young, Gabby Barrett, Jillian Cardarelli, Jon Pardi, Matthew West, The Beach Boys, and Warren Zeiders. Gabby Barrett and Matthew West will serve as co-hosts for the celebration.

The U.S. Navy Band is also set to perform during the festivities. This years ceremony follows the recent announcement of the White Houses 2025 holiday theme: Home is Where the Heart is.

The lighting ceremony is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. EST. Viewers can watch the event live through the broadcast link provided above.

Author's Commentary: National Christmas Tree Lighting 2026

The upcoming National Christmas Tree lighting, featuring President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, underscores the White House's commitment to maintaining long-standing holiday traditions. Scheduled for Thursday evening at 6 p.m. EST, the event will blend ceremonial formality with a series of musical performances, including acts by The Beach Boys, Gabby Barrett, and Matthew West.

Gabby Barrett and Matthew West are set to co-host, adding continuity and familiarity to the celebration. The inclusion of the U.S. Navy Band highlights the event's ceremonial significance, while the selected theme for 2025, “Home is Where the Heart is,” reflects a focus on family and national unity during the holiday season.

Viewers have the opportunity to watch the event live, providing both a public spectacle and a symbolic reaffirmation of tradition in the nation's capital. The careful selection of performers and hosts suggests a balance between contemporary music appeal and the formal tone expected of a White House ceremony.

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• Watch live: Trump, first lady participate in National Christmas Tree lighting