On the second Sunday of every December the Nation's Christmas Tree ceremony takes place. This year was the 79th annual. It's a grand tradition around here. There is a "Trek to the Tree" that starts on the valley floor and ends at the tree itself, the laying of the wreath by Park Rangers while taps is played, presentation of colors, speeches, readings, singing of Christmas carols...I prefer to tour the trees on less busy days myself, like I did today.
The General Grant Tree was dedicated as the Nation's Christmas Tree in 1926 by President Calvin Coolidge. In 1956 the tree was proclaimed the nation's only Living National Shrine by President Eisenhower in memory of Americans who have died in war.
The General Grant Tree is 268' tall, 40' in diameter, and approximately 1700 years old. Pictures never do this tree justice, you really need to see it in person.
More interesting info here: http://www.nps.gov/seki/xmastree.htm
The General Grant Tree was dedicated as the Nation's Christmas Tree in 1926 by President Calvin Coolidge. In 1956 the tree was proclaimed the nation's only Living National Shrine by President Eisenhower in memory of Americans who have died in war.
The General Grant Tree is 268' tall, 40' in diameter, and approximately 1700 years old. Pictures never do this tree justice, you really need to see it in person.
More interesting info here: http://www.nps.gov/seki/xmastree.htm
