Watch Live: The 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting

The National Christmas Tree is illuminated during the lighting ceremony on the Ellipse in Washington D.C., Dec. 1, 2011. The White House is visible in the background. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

The White House is officially bedecked with cheer for the holiday season, which means it’s time for another special tradition: the lighting of the National Christmas Tree.

This evening, President Obama, the First Lady and their family will participate in the 91st annual holiday tree lighting ceremony on the Ellipse in President’s Park, just outside the White House gates. 

President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, daughters Sasha and Malia, and Marian Robinson participate in the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., Dec. 6, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

Hosted by Emmy Award-winning actress Jane Lynch, this year’s National Christmas Tree Lighting features a talented line-up of performers including: The Avett Brothers, Joshua Bell, Mariah Carey, Renée Fleming, Forte, Aretha Franklin, Janelle Monáe, Prince Royce, Arturo Sandoval, Train, and Nolan Williams, Jr. and Voices of Inspiration.

And, no matter where you are, you won’t have to miss a second of the fun, because you can watch the whole event live at www.thenationaltree.org beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET.

More information about the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting can be found at www.thenationaltree.org and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/thenationaltree. Follow the conversation using the hashtag #NCTL2013.

For more information:

• Check out photos and videos from the 2010, 2011 and 2012 National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremonies
• Learn more about holidays at the White House