Melania Trump Lights National Christmas Tree in D.C.

Melania Trump Lights National Christmas Tree in D.C./ TezzBuzz/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Melania Trump lit the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C., following a countdown led by President Donald Trump. The festive event featured musical performances and moments of reflection, including Trump’s remarks on world events and recent domestic tragedies. The ceremony blended holiday tradition with political overtones as Trump praised public servants and referenced upcoming global events.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wave following the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse, Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, near the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Melania Trump Christmas Tree Ceremony: Quick Looks

  • Melania Trump lights the 2025 National Christmas Tree
  • President Trump led the countdown before the lighting
  • Gold-toned lights illuminated the tree after activation
  • Event featured performances by The Beach Boys, Matthew West, and more
  • Trump praised first responders, ICE, and Border Patrol agents
  • He highlighted the U.S. hosting World Cup and Olympics in 2026
  • Briefly mentioned peace deal between Rwanda and the DRC
  • Repeated claims of 2020 election fraud
  • Honored injured National Guardsman Andrew Wolfe and family
  • Shared Oval Office photo with Wolfe’s family afterward
President Donald Trump, accompanied by first lady Melania Trump, speaks following the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse, Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, near the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

First Lady Melania Trump Lights National Christmas Tree

WASHINGTON — Melania Trump lit up the National Christmas Tree on a brisk December evening, continuing a cherished holiday tradition in the shadow of the White House. Joined by President Donald Trump, the first lady illuminated the tree after a ceremonial countdown, casting golden light across the Ellipse.

“This is a beauty,” said the president moments after the tree lit up, drawing applause from the bundled-up crowd.

The festive evening brought together holiday cheer and political reflection. The musical lineup ranged from the timeless harmonies of The Beach Boys to contemporary Christian and country acts including Matthew West, Gabby Barrett, Jon Pardi, Alana Springsteen, Brett Young, and Warren Zeiders. The performances filled the air with seasonal sounds as families and visitors gathered near the National Mall.

President Trump introduced the lighting ceremony by inviting his wife to do the honors. After counting down from five, Melania Trump stepped forward and pressed the ceremonial button, triggering the glow of gold-hued lights that wrapped the towering tree behind them.

But the night was not only about celebration. In his brief speech, Trump touched on both global and domestic issues. He acknowledged a peace agreement signed earlier that day between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo — a rare moment of international diplomacy referenced during the event.

He also veered into familiar territory, mentioning unproven claims that the 2020 election was “rigged,” a refrain he has continued to repeat. However, he framed the result in a positive light, saying he was glad not to have served consecutive terms. “Now I’ll be in office when the World Cup and the Summer Olympics come to the United States next year,” Trump said, referencing the two major global events slated for 2026.

The president took time to thank Americans who dedicate their lives to service — particularly law enforcement officers, first responders, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials, and Border Patrol agents. “They risk their lives every day,” he noted, offering appreciation on behalf of the nation.

Trump also addressed a recent tragedy that hit close to the White House. Two National Guard members were shot the day before Thanksgiving, and one of them — Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe — remains hospitalized. The president said he had spoken with Wolfe’s family, offering support and encouragement during the recovery process.

After returning to the White House following the tree lighting, Trump posted a photo on his social media platform showing Wolfe’s family gathered around him in the Oval Office. Wolfe, seated at the president’s desk, appeared to be in good spirits.

“Wolfe is in the process of healing,” Trump wrote in his post. “His parents, brother, and all of his friends are praying. I just met them in the Oval Office — They are fantastic American Patriots!”

The 2025 National Christmas Tree lighting continued a tradition that dates back over a century, blending festive celebration with moments of solemn recognition and political significance. As the tree’s golden lights shined into the night, it marked the unofficial beginning of the holiday season in the capital — one imbued with symbolism, unity, and a message of resilience.


More on US News

The post Melania Trump Lights National Christmas Tree in D.C. appeared first on NewsLooks.

Comments are closed.