The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a Christmas tradition that every American looks forward to. All eyes are on the President and First Lady as they light the tree, followed by the President's holiday wishes to the crowd and the millions more watching the event on television. There's a band playing holiday favorites, and in addition to the large tree that is the focal point of the festival, there are also several smaller trees that represent our states and territories. The trees stay lit and this celebration begins a month-long schedule of various entertainment that helps to keep the Christmas spirit high.
The National Gallery of Art offers everything you ever wanted to know about art and presents an incredible amount of it all in one place. The Gallery's numerous exhibits and attractions stretch from the Middle Ages all the way to today. Works by da Vinci, Rembrandt, Raphael and Titian, among others, are all here. The facility proudly exhibits over 3,000 paintings, 2,000 pieces of sculpture and over 100,000 prints, drawings and other interesting pieces. Also, don't forget to spend a little time in the Sculpture Garden that can be found at the corner of 7th and Madison.
Referred to as "America's attic," the National Museum of American History offers an unprecedented collection of items that numbers to nearly three million entries. Everything from Dorothy's ruby red slippers, to one of the first Kermit the Frog puppets, to Julia Child's kitchen, to an astounding 34-foot Star Spangled Banner, are just a few of the numerous highlights. The kids will love the interactive displays, especially the ones that encourage invention and creativity.
Everyone has heard of George Washington, our first President, but how many people can actually say that they knew what he was like? You can be one of those who have gotten a look at some of George's personal life when you tour the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. The man is memorialized quite fittingly with the impressive statue that greets you when you arrive at this story-filled building. This lodge replicates what the lodge looked like back in Washington's time here in the appropriately named Replica Room. There are several exhibits that reveal little-known facts about the man's career, life and legacy. Also, don't miss the ninth-floor observatory that gives you a chance to take in a truly amazing panoramic view of the city.