National Christmas Tree 2007      
 Photo Credit: NPS/Donna Spiewak

December 3, 2009 – Today at 5 p.m. ET everyone, except perhaps those fortunate visitors who got tickets to attend the event in person on the Ellipse at the White House, will be able to watch live-streaming of the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The live webcast page at The National Christmas Tree is now in countdown mode, with under three hours left until the ceremony begins.

The National Park Service and the National Park Foundation have extended this invitation:

This year, experience the magic of the National Christmas Tree Lighting without ever leaving your home. Come back to www.thenationaltree.org on December 3rd at 5pm ET to watch the show LIVE! Every performance, presenter and holiday festivity from the ceremony will be broadcast online for you to view from wherever you are.
 

American Idol judge Randy Jackson will be host of the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2009. Performers include Sheryl Crow, Common, Ray LaMontagne, Jordin Sparks, Celtic Woman, Joshua Redman and Brad Mehldau.

A lottery, which ended on November 6, was held as a way for the general public to obtain tickets to the event. For those who wish to enjoy the tree lighting from the comfort of home, this annual kickoff to holiday events at President's Park.

For more info about the holidays on the Elipse: The National Christmas Tree

Related stories:

Sheryl Crow, Common and Ray LaMontagne at National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

National Christmas Tree Lighting: Jordin Sparks, Celtic Woman and more to join Sheryl Crow

American Idol judge Randy Jackson to host National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

See also:

Michelle Obama unveils Christmas decorations at the White House (video and slide show)

2009 White House Christmas Tree presented to First Lady Michelle Obama (video and photos)

Other holiday events at the national parks