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 The Annual Christmas
Pageant of Peace ...
kicked-off with the lighting of the National Christmas Tree by
the President of the United States on the Ellipse just across
from the White House. The National Christmas Tree, as well as
US state and territory trees were officially illuminated at the
ceremony, and will remain open to the public during the month-long
event.
The National Christmas
Tree was lit at the conclusion of a one-hour musical program
celebrating the opening of the Christmas Pageant of Peace on
Wednesday, December 9, 1998. A star-studded pageantry marked
the occasion, including Tony Bennett, Jose Feliciano, Leona Mitchell,
Paul Hill Chorale, the performers from "Cats" and the
Air Force Band. NBC's Al Roker added a humorous touch as Santa
Claus. The event finale was the official lighting of the tree
from President Clinton which invoking a warming cheer from the
audience. The Christmas Pageant of Peace will run from December
10 through January 1. The site will be open from 10 a.m. to 11
p.m., and the trees will be lit from sunset to 11 p.m.
 The first National Christmas Tree
event started in 1913 with President Woodrow Wilson who first
lit the tree at the Capitol with the intent that it be recognized
as a national event. The occasion elaborately included 1,000
singers along with the U.S. Marine Band performing before an
audience of 20,000 spectators. In 1954 the Christmas Pageant
of Peace Inc. was organized and the scope of the National Community
Christmas Tree Celebration was broadened to emphasize the desire
for peace embodied in the spirit and meaning of Christmas. The
Pageant of Peace was therefore created and President Dwight D.
Eisenhower lit the first National Christmas Tree for the Pageant
of Peace in 1954. |
 The Pageant of Peace main focus
of attraction is the National Christmas Tree, a living 40 foot
Colorado Blue Spruce planted on October 20, 1978. Garden-sized
model railroad displays surround the tree. The Pathway of Peace consists of a boardwalk which
strolls adjacent to 56 living trees, arranged alphabetically,
each representing one of 50 states, 5 territories and the District
of Columbia. These trees will be transplanted throughout the
DC metropolitan area following the Pageant. |
 Along the Pathway of Peace boardwalk
one encounters the Yule Log, Nativity scene and concert stage,
each providing a snapshot of Christmas heritage known throughout
America. The burning of the Yule log, originally part of a mythical
festivity, was adopted by the English as part of the Christmas
Eve festivities. It's a great place to stop and get warm. If
you're lucky you might even catch them dropping a log or two
on the fire with the forklift, it emits great showers of sparks! |
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 Located at the halfway point along
the Pageant boardwalk is the Nativity scene. The Nativity represents
the origins of Christmas with the celebrated birth date of Christ.
The manger scene depicts Mary and Joseph, the baby Jesus, the
three kings bearing gifts, an angel (outside right) along side
with the animals. Up until recently one could see and pet live
reindeer at the display. It was a big attraction for kids and
adults alike. Rumor is, the budget cuts had a part to play.
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 Concert
activities at the concert stage are held nightly. These generally
include young performers from various area schools, dance groups,
bands and choruses, and other select performers. It's a great
time for everyone, especially if it's your child that's on stage.
A music
program of events can be obtained from the National Park Service. |
 Directly
across from the Pageant of Peace ...
stands the south entrance to the White House. If you look closely
you can see the President's Christmas tree on the second floor
through the center window. On December 28th, 29th and 30th the
White House will conduct Christmas Candlelight Tours. Tickets
are not required, but lines may be long so dress warmly. If
you spend any amount of time down and around the the National
Christmas Tree this year you may notice that the big question
everyone is asking is why the White House Christmas wreath
is so blue? Is it always blue, is it just an aesthetic effect,
or could it be with all that has happened recently that the
residents inside are feeling just a little bit "blue"
this year! To see what others think, or to register your opinion,
visit the Blue Wreath Registry
and tell us what you think... |
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The Pageant of Peace, a serene atmosphere
of lights and yule-tide spirit, is a must to see if visiting
the Nation's Capitol this holiday season. Putting politics aside,
this is one event which highlights the spirit of what Americans
have in common, and with plenty of hot chocolate and coffee to
go around. |
...And That's All Folks! |
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Before you leave, visit the Image Gallery
and view the complete collection of 22 select photos from Washington DC's most scenic hot-spots, and download your copy today . . .
