Barack Obama and First Family Light National Christmas Tree (photos)

Barack and Michelle Obama lit the National Christmas Tree for the last time as president and first lady on Thursday, Dec. 1. The first couple was joined by daughter Sasha. The National Christmas Tree is a large evergreen located in the northeast quadrant of the Ellipse near the White House. The event was emceed by Eva Longoria. Entertainers included Kelly Clarkson, the Lumineers, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Chance the Rapper, James Taylor, Yolanda Adams, Marc Anthony, Afro Blue and the Air Force Airmen of Note. In his concluding remarks, President Obama made a wish for Americans to treat one another as they would want to be treated.

The National Christmas Tree Lighting will be televised Monday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. on the Hallmark Channel.

The “Pathway of Peace” site is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in December. The walkway surrounding the National Christmas Tree features 57 state and territory trees decorated with handmade ornaments unique to each tree. Nightly music and dance performances take place on the Ellipse stage for two weeks in December. The National Christmas Tree lights turn on at approximately 4:30 p.m. and turn off promptly at 10 p.m.

*View Jeff Malet’s photos of the National Tree Lighting Ceremony with the Obamas by clicking on the icons below.*