CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -
The lottery is open for the 2012 National Christmas Tree Lighting
Ceremony.
The ceremony, scheduled for December 6 in Washington DC, is
celebrating its 90th year. It includes the illumination of the
National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse on the south lawn of the White House. Nationally
known entertainers and the United States military band add to the celebratory
feel.
The National Christmas Tree is surrounded by a walkway known
as the "Christmas Pathway of Peace" – made up of 56 smaller trees. The smaller
trees represent the 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia. Each
tree is decorated with unique ornaments created by an artist from the state or
territory it represents.
Visitors can see The Pathway of Peace lit up each night
until 10 p.m. eastern through January 1st.
For the 18th year, the National Christmas Tree
Railroad will provide model trains to surround the base of the National
Christmas Tree. The trains run from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. through January 1st.
New this year, visitors can also get a glimpse of Santa's
workshop – and during select times, Santa will be available for pictures with
children.
Each night during the holiday season, performers from around
the region gather to wow visitors.
For more information about visiting the National Christmas
Tree, click here.
To apply for the lottery to attend the National Christmas
Tree lighting, click here. The lottery application period ends at 10:00 a.m.
Eastern Time on Monday, October 29.
