Holiday on the Ellipse
During your visit to the National Christmas Tree and Santa’s Workshop along the Christmas Pathway of Peace, be sure to check out additional attractions including the National Christmas Tree Railroad, Nativity Scene and Yule Log.
Visitors to the 1994 National Christmas Tree found a new addition of special delight for children and adults – an electric train that ran around the base of the tree. The trains have expanded each year and now include multiple tracks, trains, bridges and buildings.
The railroad has flourished from two trains to nine trains and three trolley lines, which run on over 1,000 feet of track. The trains are installed and maintained each December by volunteer enthusiasts from a variety of train organizations. To each volunteer and donor we extend our special thanks for your gift which produces joy and sparkling eyes as visitors watch the National Christmas Tree Railroad.
The Nativity Scene was first included at the 1954 Lighting of the National Christmas Tree. Today’s display was donated by Mr. Earl Hargrove, Jr., to CPOP, Inc. which contributes it each year to this special celebration. The presence of the Yule Log also dates to the 1950's.
