This photograph, taken by Matthew D'Agostino on December 5, 2019, shows a flock of birds above the National Christmas Tree during the pre-show of the 97th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. While the birds were not a scheduled part of the evening's performance, they served as a reminder that the event took place on protected natural parkland: the Ellipse on President's Park, managed by the National Park Service. 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.

This photograph of the North Portico and North Front of the White House decorated for the holiday season was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on the morning of December 2, 2019 during a press preview of the year's holiday decor. The windows were decorated with festive wreaths and a large ribbon greeted visitors coming through the doors. The holiday theme for 2019 was “The Spirit of America”, which recognized the United States' rich history and traditions. Designed by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House decorations paid tribute to the individuals who have shaped the country and kept the American spirit alive, drawing inspiration from the hard working people and families Mrs. Trump met on her travels as first lady.

This photograph of the North Portico and North Front of the White House decorated for the holiday season was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on the morning of December 2, 2019 during a press preview of the year's holiday decor. The windows were decorated with festive wreaths and a large ribbon greeted visitors coming through the doors. The holiday theme for 2019 was “The Spirit of America”, which recognized the United States' rich history and traditions. Designed by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House decorations paid tribute to the individuals who have shaped the country and kept the American spirit alive, drawing inspiration from the hard working people and families Mrs. Trump met on her travels as first lady.

This photograph of the West Wing Entrance was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on the morning of December 2, 2019 during a preview of the White House holiday decorations. A large Christmas tree is visible through the doors. The holiday theme for 2019 was “The Spirit of America”, which recognized the United States' rich history and traditions. Designed by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House decorations paid tribute to the individuals who have shaped the country and kept the American spirit alive, drawing inspiration from the hard working people and families Mrs. Trump met on her travels as first lady.

This photograph of the West Wing Entrance was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on the morning of December 2, 2019 during a preview of the White House holiday decorations. A large Christmas tree is visible through the doors. The holiday theme for 2019 was “The Spirit of America”, which recognized the United States' rich history and traditions. Designed by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House decorations paid tribute to the individuals who have shaped the country and kept the American spirit alive, drawing inspiration from the hard working people and families Mrs. Trump met on her travels as first lady.

This photograph of the North Portico and North Front of the White House decorated for the holiday season was taken by Matthew D'Agostino on the morning of December 2, 2019 during a press preview of the year's holiday decor. The windows were decorated with festive wreaths and a large ribbon greeted visitors coming through the doors. The holiday theme for 2019 was “The Spirit of America”, which recognized the United States' rich history and traditions. Designed by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House decorations paid tribute to the individuals who have shaped the country and kept the American spirit alive, drawing inspiration from the hard working people and families Mrs. Trump met on her travels as first lady.