This photograph of members of the United States Army Band Downrange performing at the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the Ellipse was taken by Thomas Goertel on December 2, 2021. The military band provided accompaniment to the featured performers during the ceremony. The event was hosted by rapper and actor LL Cool J and featured performances by Billy Porter, Chris Stapleton, H.E.R., Juanes, Keb’ Mo’, Kristin Chenoweth, Maren Morris, and Patti LaBelle.

The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is a cherished holiday tradition in Washington, D.C. When President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree in 1923, the celebration attracted more than 6,000 spectators. The opening ceremony and nightly holiday concerts have annually drawn hundreds of attendees.