Ticket lottery dates, performers announced for 2016 National Christmas Tree Lighting
WASHINGTON - The National Christmas Tree Lighting is one of the most anticipated events during the holiday season in the nation's capital and the National Park Service has announced the lottery for free tickets will open on Oct. 7.
The annual tradition will be held on the Ellipse near the White House on Dec. 1 this year. This is the 94th year the National Christmas Tree Lighting will be held after it was first started by President Calvin Coolidge back in 1923.
Chance the Rapper, Kelly Clarkson and Yolanda Adams are all scheduled to perform at the event.
Free tickets are awarded through an online lottery, which opens at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 7 and closes at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 10.
To enter the lottery, visit www.thenationaltree.org and click the "TICKET LOTTERY" link. Those without computer access can also enter the lottery by calling 877-444-6777. Lottery winners will be notified on Oct. 27.