WASHINGTON, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump lit the National Christmas Tree just south of the White House on Thursday.

"It's an honor to be with everyone tonight, and all across our land, Melania and I would like to wish you a very, very Merry Christmas," Trump said before the first lady pressed the button to light the 30-foot (9-meter) tall Colorado spruce tree.

The tree-lighting ceremony also featured musical performances. The spruce tree will be lit in the evenings through Jan. 1 and the site is open to the public.

The tradition of lighting a national tree began with President Calvin Coolidge over 90 years ago.