National Christmas Tree lighting (16 images)

The National Christmas Tree is lit with the White House in the background after President Obama took part in the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2013. UPI/Molly Riley

President Barack Obama waves with Santa Clause, Mariah Carey (Right), Renee Fleming (3rd Left) and other guests after taking part in the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2013. UPI/Molly Riley

First daughters Malia Obama (L) and Sasha Obama (R) look on from the stage during the 91st National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the Ellipse south of the White House in Washington, DC, on December 6, 2013. The lighting of the tree is an annual tradition attended by the US President and the First Family. President Calvin Coolidge lit the first National Christmas tree, a 48-foot Balsam fir, in 1923. UPI/Jim Lo Scalzo/Pool

President Obama hugs Santa Clause after taking part in the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2013. UPI/Molly Riley

President Obama hugs Santa Clause after taking part in the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2013. UPI/Molly Riley

President Obama hugs Santa Clause after taking part in the 2013 National Christmas Tree Lighting on the Ellipse in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2013. UPI/Molly Riley