National Christmas Tree

The National Christmas Tree is on the Ellipse just east of the White House in Washington, DC.

Around the base of the tree, the National Christmas Tree Railroad winds it's way. The model railroad display is designed, built and maintained by volunteers.

Between December 8 and 24, Santa's Workshop is open on the Ellipse site as well.

There are also small trees from all the states and territories.


The National Menora is also located on the Ellipse.

No Collingwood Lights in 2012

!Collingwood Lights update!

From collingwoodlights.com:

NO DISPLAY IN 2012                                                                                                                  
For 21 years I have decorated my home for Christmas. As my display has grown so has the amount of work involved in setting it up. I'm sure everyone knows it is not a small undertaking, but I doubt anyone,except my family, is actually aware of the commitment involved. This is a year around project, but the actual set up last year was well over 300 hours.The work begins in mid Sept. and, with fingers crossed, culminates with light up on December 1st. In years past I have been blessed with being able to take the entire month of November off from work  to work full time on the display but sadly, this year has been very different.
After spending most of the summer agonizing over the whole thing it became glaringly apparent that this years display just could not be pulled off and that for the first time in over 20 years the December nights will seem a little colder and a little darker on Collingwood Rd.
My hope is that those who read this will pass the information on so others are not disappointed by a wasted trip to see the lights. God willing, next year we will be back with a display that is even bigger and brighter than ever!

Merry Christmas,
Bill Vaughan

Here's video of Bill's display from two years ago...

1407 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA

Lots of characters at this one. Elf workshop scene and a large Santa's sleigh scene.

1601 Collingwood Road, Alexandria, VA 22308

This is reportedly the largest residential holiday light display in Virginia. He's been doing it for a number of years now. It's very complex and is choreographed to music that you can listen to in your car (tune to 88.1!). The kids will love it.



A note of caution: it can get busy and it attracts lots of attention from drivers passing by so be careful. There's a place for three or four cars to pull over and watch and there's an elder care center with a small parking lot across the street where you can park and get out to watch on foot.

Burke & Herbert Holiday Boat Parade of Lights Saturday 12/4/2010

This year's Holiday Boat Parade of Lights begins at 4 p.m. on December 4th on Alexandia's Historic Waterfront at the east end of Cameron Street. More than 50 boats will participate in the Potomac River cruise, and viewers will be able to enjoy free holiday treats for people and their pets.

Good viewing spots include Founder's Park and the docks at the waterfront area. Get there early as riverside spots fill up fast.

Vist the Holiday Boat Parade site if you want to register your boat and be in the parade.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the marina by fireboat at 4:15 p.m. and will be available to take free pictures with children and dogs.

Visitors are invited to support the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots drive by bringing a toy to the collection point at the gazebo during the event.

409 E Nelson Ave Alexandria, VA 22301

In the Del Ray section of Alexandria City is a classic display with an impressive archway up the front sidewalk. Each piece of the archway has a large lit bell at the top and icicle lights. My daughter insisted we get out and look at this one up close.

8342 Wagon Wheel Road, Alexandria, VA 22309

We'll start small, with one for the kiddies. This is a classic suburban display complete with moving, inflatable creations, lots of penguins, and simple, yet nice, lights.