President Trump and first lady Melania Trump lit the National Christmas Tree in front of the White House on Thursday.
The president delivered remarks while the first lady flipped the switch to bathe the tree in light. A band played Christmas music throughout the ceremony. The tradition of lighting the National Christmas Tree dates back to 1923.
Last year, an “emotionally distressed” man climbed the National Christmas Tree days before Christmas and refused to come down for about an hour. Police blocked off the north side of the White House while negotiators coaxed the man out of the tree. He was transported to a hospital after the incident.
