U.S President Barack Obama stated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at White House by pressing a switch after doing countdown starting from 5.
As soon as the tree burst into color, singing diva Aretha Franklin took to the stage for a spirited version of “Joy to the World.”
Joining Obama for the 91st annual tree-lighting ceremony were first Obama’s wife Michelle Obama, daughters Sasha and Malia, and mother-in-law Marian Robinson.
Obama’s Wife Michelle Obama read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” Poem with “Sesame Street” Muppet Abby Cadabby.
Obama praised Nelson Mandela when talking at this Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
“He blessed us with tremendous grace and unbelievable courage,” Obama said. “We are all privileged to live in a world touched by his goodness.”