Reese Witherspoon, Crosby, Stills & Nash join first family for National Christmas Tree Lighting

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama and the First Family lit the National Christmas Tree Thursday night at the 2015 National Christmas Tree Lighting, the annual event that kicks off the holiday season in the nation's capital.

Oscar-winner Reese Witherspoon hosted the 90-minute program featuring various musical artists and Miss Piggy joining First Lady Michelle Obama to read "The Night Before Christmas." The show will be seen on PBS stations through December.

Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Crosby, Stills and Nash performed, along with Fall Out Boy, singers Andra Day, Aloe Blacc, and Kelsea Ballerini; musicians Trombone Shorty and Tori Kelly; the Joyous String Ensemble and the United States Coast Guard Band; and actress Bellamy Young.

The 93rd annual National Christmas Tree Lighting was held at the Ellipse at President's Park, across the street from the White House. The Washington tradition began with President Calvin Coolidge in 1923.