The National Christmas Tree remains unlit before the 2016 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C., Dec. 1, 2016. The annual tree lighting tradition began in 1923 and has continued every year since. This year’s event included performances from a variety of artists, a storybook reading, and a speech by President Barack Obama. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jordyn Fetter)