Read on PBS NewsMelania Trump Lights National Christmas Tree in 2025 Ceremony
President Donald Trump passed the ceremonial duty to First Lady Melania Trump during the 2025 National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C. The event featured traditional holiday remarks alongside contemporary political commentary, including references to international diplomacy, election claims, and upcoming global sporting events. The ceremony maintained the longstanding tradition while reflecting the unique characteristics of the Trump administration's public engagements.
The annual National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, a cherished Washington tradition since 1923, took on a distinctive character in 2025 when President Donald Trump invited First Lady Melania Trump to perform the ceremonial lighting. The event, held on a Thursday evening in the nation's capital, blended seasonal celebration with political commentary, creating a multifaceted public moment documented by PBS NewsHour and other media outlets.
The Ceremonial Moment
In a departure from the typical presidential role, Donald Trump explicitly designated the honor to the first lady, announcing to the assembled crowd, "The first lady is going to do the honors." Following a countdown from five to zero led by the president, Melania Trump stepped forward and pressed a button that illuminated the towering evergreen with gold-toned lights, prompting the president to declare, "It's a beauty." This moment represented both a continuation of the tree lighting tradition and a personalization of the ceremony by the Trump administration.
Political Context and Remarks
The ceremony extended beyond holiday greetings to include commentary on current events. President Trump referenced the peace agreement signed earlier that day between Rwanda and Congo, highlighting diplomatic developments during his administration. He also reiterated claims about the 2020 election being "rigged," injecting contemporary political discourse into the seasonal event. Additionally, Trump expressed satisfaction with the timing of his non-consecutive terms, noting he would be in office during the 2026 World Cup and Summer Olympics scheduled for the United States.
Recognition and Remembrance
The president's remarks included acknowledgments of various service members, extending thanks to those assisting people in need, law enforcement officers, first responders, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol agents. He also addressed the recent shooting near the White House that resulted in the death of one National Guard member and injury of another the day before Thanksgiving, connecting the holiday ceremony to contemporary security concerns.
Tradition and Administration Style
The 2025 tree lighting exemplified how presidential administrations imprint their distinctive characteristics on established Washington traditions. By having the first lady perform the lighting rather than the president himself, the Trumps created a memorable variation on the ceremony while maintaining its essential symbolic function of marking the holiday season's official commencement in the capital. The event's blend of ceremonial tradition, family participation, and political commentary reflected the distinctive approach of the Trump presidency to official functions.
