On November 29th, Union Station’s Main Hall was host to the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Thanks to the generosity of the Norwegian people, Union Station receives a lovely tree every year. This celebration has been ongoing for 21 years, similar to the Norwegian Christmas tree lighting in Trafalgar Square in London, England, which this year celebrated its 70th anniversary. Adults and children came to listen to the music of Jardar Johansen and the Carolers of Greater Washington; hear comments from Norway’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Kåre R. Aas and  Idar G. Voldnes, President of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the Norwegian-American Chamber of Commerce; see the 32-foot tree lit up; and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. USRC hopes that everyone who attended the Main Hall celebration had a wonderful time and those who were unable to come will stop by the station to see the beautiful tree during the holiday season.

(Photo Credit: Jillian Hess, USRC Public Relations and Outreach Manager)