National Christmas Tree Lighting ticket lottery opens

WASHINGTON - The online lottery for free tickets to attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in the nation's capital will open up at 10 a.m. Thursday.

This year's ceremony will be held on Nov. 30. It will be the 95th edition of this annual event that dates back to 1923.

The online lottery will last for four days and will end at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 16.

To enter the lottery, go to www.thenationaltree.org and click the "TICKET LOTTERY" link. Those without computer access can call 877-444-6777 to enter the lottery.

Lottery winners will be notified on Oct. 30.

Performers scheduled to appear at this year's event include Boys II Bow Ties, Mannheim Steamroller and the U.S. Navy Band. Other entertainers and special guests will be announced within the next few weeks.