Christmas Lights in Washington DC

By Patty Hankins & Bill Lawrence

Each year, there are some great opportunities for taking photos of Christmas lights in Washington DC. It’s not unusual for us to head out 5 or 6 times in December trying to get good photos of the various light displays.

If you’re in the DC area – here are some places you may want to take a look at.

1) Pageant of Peace – this is the display behind the White House on the Ellipse. It has the National Christmas Tree – and at least 50 smaller trees. This year’s display begins on December 2 and ends on January 1. Photography can be a challenge at the Pageant of Peace due to the crowds. More information can be found at http://www.nps.gov/whho/pageant/

2) U.S. Capitol Tree – another spectacular tree is the one at the U.S. Capitol building. This year’s tree comes from Virginia. The lighting ceremony is on December 9. If you want to take photos of the tree – be sure to contact the Capitol police about a tripod permit. If you don’t have a permit – you can not use a tripod on the Capitol grounds. More information about the Capitol tree can be found at http://www.aoc.gov/cc/grounds/hol_trees/2004tree.htm

3) Union Station – the tree at Union Station is provided by Norway each year. This year’s tree lighting ceremony will take place on November 30, with Princess Martha Louise lighting the tree. In addition to the indoor tree, there are usually some lovely decorations on the outside of Union Station. More information about Christmas at Union Station can be found at http://www.unionstationdc.com/intro_fm.html

4) Canadian Embassy – the outdoor tree at the Embassy of Canada is always beautifully decorated. Located at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW this tree is one that shouldn’t be missed.

5) Australian Embassy – the light display at the Australian Embassy is a favorite with people in the DC area. Each year, the Embassy displays a group of kangaroos above the embassy sign. The lead kangaroo has a glowing red nose! The Australian Embassy is located at 1601 Massachusetts Avenue, NW.

Even if you don’t get a chance to take photos of the lights in DC, its worth driving by them to take a quick look.

Here are a couple of photos of christmas lights in the area.

Copyright © 2004, Patty Hankins	A lighted wreath in the main entrance to Union Station.
Copyright © 2004, William Lawrence	The US Capitol Building with the Capitol Christmas tree.
Copyright © 2004, Patty Hankins	Closer view of the Capitol Christmas tree.
Copyright © 2004, William Lawrence	Holiday lights at the Australian Embassy.  We haven't been by so far this year at the time of writing of the article, but last year they were having some issues of burned out lights on the lead kangaroo's tail.

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