"Christmas in Washington" Washington D.C. Travelogue by soccergrrl

Here are some pictures from this year's Pageant of Peace, which is set up on the Ellipse just south of the White House. There is the National Christmas Tree (a permanent, living tree) surrounded by large trains running through little landscaped villages, and small trees for each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all US territories. The ornaments on every tree are different and often reflect something for which the state is known (Massachusetts has cranberries, for example, while Florida has pictures of an astronaut). There is also a stage for live performances throughout the holiday season, and a huge fire pit where the Yule log burns.

A Guiding Star . . .

The "night" setting on my digital camera really sets off the star at the top of the tree, doesn't it? That's the Washington Monument to the right of the tree.

Toot Toot!

Here are a couple of the little train displays around the base of the tree. The trains have headlights, etc., so with the extended shutter opening for "night" the blur of the lights makes them look like they are really moving fast!

More Trains

The trains are larger scale than most home sets, so they really are fun to watch.

Now Where are Those Chestnuts?!?

On a cold night, nothing beats a nice, cozy, warm fire. This is some serious snap, crackle, pop--and a whole lotta heat! The best part is when they need to put a new log on, and they bring it over and drop it from the forklift. The fire hisses as it consumes the new wood and the sky fills with tiny orange sparks.

Virginia's Tree

Here is the tree from the Commonwealth of Virginia--my state.

A Warm Glow

Looking back from the Yule log, you can see the White House lighted warmly in the background. (Sorry for the blur; even resting the camera on a fence it's tough to keep still enough for the "night" setting.)

The White House

Finally, say goodnight and goodbye to Dubya!