Ovation and Reelz to Broadcast the 2018 National Christmas Tree Lighting

The National Park Service and the National Park Foundation announced today that Ovation and REELZ will broadcast the 2018 National Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 2 at 10 p.m. EDT.

Co-presented by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, this beloved American tradition features live musical performances and the official lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse in President's Park (White House). The broadcast offers a wonderful opportunity for friends and families across the country to tune in and rejoice in this holiday tradition together.

"We're thrilled that REELZ and our sister network Ovation are partnering with the National Park Foundation and National Park Service to celebrate the holiday season by broadcasting the National Christmas Tree Lighting," said Stan E. Hubbard, CEO of REELZ. "It's an honor to share one of the nation's oldest and most revered traditions with our viewers and we look forward to watching this cherished American pastime."

First celebrated in 1923 by President Calvin Coolidge, the ceremony today inspires visitors and viewers from around the globe to #FindYourPark/#EncuentraTuParque during the holiday season.

The National Christmas Tree is a living Colorado blue spruce from Virginia, which can be seen year-round in President's Park. Fifty-six smaller trees surrounding the National Christmas Tree will feature one-of-a-kind ornaments, representing every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia.

The free ticket lottery to attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28 has closed, but this broadcast provides a great opportunity to enjoy the celebration from your home. You're also invited to visit the decorated National Christmas Tree and enjoy evening musical performances at President's Park throughout the month of December.

To learn more visit www.thenationaltree.org and follow along with the National Christmas Tree on Twitter @thenationaltree.