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Honoring an American Holiday Tradition with GE Lighting, a Savant Company

by Renée Hurley
2019's National Christmas Tree in President's Park
NPS Photo / Liz Macro

As one of America’s time-honored traditions, the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park stands as a reminder of the holiday spirit. Each year, the tree display and lighting ceremony offer an opportunity for friends and families across the country to tune in and celebrate the holiday tradition together.

Will Shafroth, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation recently caught up with John Strainic, Chief Operating Officer at GE Lighting, a Savant company to provide a behind the scenes look at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree.

This year marks the 98th annual National Christmas Tree lighting and the 58th year that GE products will decorate the national tree and state and territory trees lining the Pathway of Peace.

For 57 years, GE Lighting designed, decorated, and lit the tree with many unique designs. Each reflected the history, heritage, and culture of our nation. From reds, whites, greens, and blues to bows, filigree, glitter and golden stars, the tree was brilliantly decorated to create a holiday masterpiece.

“It’s an important investment that we make to support our nation and the nation's Christmas tree," says Strainic. “There is a lot of pride for all of the people in our lighting business and we couldn’t be more excited to continue that tradition this year as GE Lighting, a Savant company. We’ve had good engagement with our customers in the past and it brings additional brand recognition, in particular for our energy saving products.”

2019's National Christmas Tree in President's Park (NPS Photo / Liz Macro)

With an eye towards sustainability, in 2007, LED lights were used on National Tree for the first time. Since 2008, the tree has been lit exclusively with LED lights.

“We are proud to have been a part of this for a very long time and we look forward to continuing the partnership on into the future,” says Strainic.

To watch the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, visit thenationaltree.org.