Start your 2021 holiday season with the 99th National Christmas Tree Lighting! This beloved American tradition, presented by the National Park Service (NPS) and National Park Foundation (NPF), features musical performances and the official lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse in President’s Park. This year, the ceremony and official lighting will take place on Thursday, Dec. 2.  

LL COOL J will be the host, joined by Billy Porter, Chris Stapleton, H.E.R., Juanes, Keb’ Mo’, Kristin Chenoweth, Maren Morris, and Patti LaBelle performing holiday favorites alongside the U.S. Army Band Downrange and the Howard Gospel Choir. 

In partnership with NPF, CBS will broadcast the 2021 ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 5 (8:30-9:30 PM, ET/8-9 PM, PT) on the CBS Television Network. The CBS broadcast offers a special opportunity for friends and families across the country to tune in and celebrate this holiday tradition from the comfort of home.  

First celebrated in 1923 by President Calvin Coolidge, the National Christmas Tree Lighting today inspires people everywhere to pause to enjoy cherished traditions and memories made with family and friends in parks during the holiday season.  

The National Christmas Tree site is free to visit and will be open to the public Dec. 4, 2021, through Jan. 1, 2022. Hours are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 

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