The Obama Family Participates In The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Obama family attended the annual lighting of the national Christmas tree in Washington, D.C., Thursday night.

Obamas At National Christmas Tree Lighting

During the national Christmas tree lighting ceremony, President Barack Obama took a moment to address the assembled crowd and to ask them to remember those affected by the shooting in San Bernardino, Calif., earlier in the week.

“This is of course the most wonderful time of the year, but we would be remiss not to take a moment to remember our fellow Americans whose hearts are heavy tonight, who grieve for loved ones, especially in San Bernardino, California,” Obama said. “Their loss is our loss, too. We’re all one American family.”

Obama had some help flipping the switch to light the Christmas tree this year. He was joined on the Ellipse south of the White House by First Lady Michelle Obama, his daughters Malia and Sasha, as well as his mother-in-law Marian Robinson.

The tree lighting ceremony was hosted by actress Reese Witherspoon, who helped introduce the night’s musical performers. Crosby, Stills and Nash, Aloe Blacc, Kelsea Ballerini and Fall Out Boy all performed.

The Obama family, Witherspoon and all of the musical guests helped Santa Claus close out the ceremony with a rendition of “Jingle Bells.”