America

Biden affirms that his Christmas wish is for the US to continue searching for light, freedom and love

Illuminated Christmas trees on the Ellipse near the White House following a lighting ceremony in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

At his final White House Christmas tree lighting ceremony, President Joe Biden declared Thursday that his wish for the country now and always is that “we continue to seek the light of freedom and love, kindness and compassion.” , dignity and decency.”

The president gave a brief speech to a crowd well sheltered against the icy winds and low temperatures that hit the country’s capital. Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, were also present.

The tree was installed in the Ellipse Park, outside the south lawn of the White House, and can be seen from the street.

The 30-foot tall red spruce came from the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in Grayson County, Virginia. He was transferred to the White House on November 15.

Illuminated Christmas trees on the Ellipse near the White House following a lighting ceremony in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

It’s the last holiday season in the White House for Biden. His wife Jill decorated the presidential residence with decorations that evoke the “peace and light” of the season. The first lady was not present at this year’s lighting ceremony because she was in Doha, Qatar, where she was discussing her women’s health initiative.

So Biden was alone as he began a countdown from five before lighting the Christmas tree, illuminated in a bright green color from the top to the base of the trunk. He wished the crowd a Merry Christmas before descending the stage and taking his seat for the musical performances.

Biden said the theme reflects the “peace we feel as we take a minute and reflect on our blessings and the light we perceive as we gather with our loved ones and treasure the time we spend together.”

Trombone Shorty and Trisha Yearwood were in charge of some of the musical acts at the traditional annual event.

The White House Christmas display includes a towering tree surrounded by a carousel, bronze bells and jingle bells along a hallway, and a simulated snowfall ceiling.

That tree came from a farm in Newland, North Carolina, where Hurricane Helene caused extensive devastation a few months ago. The Cartner Christmas Tree Farm, which had been standing for decades, lost thousands of trees in a landslide.

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